Riyadh [Saudi Arabia], April 22 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep appreciation for the 2.7 million-strong Indian community in Saudi Arabia, whom he said acted like a 'living bridge' between the two nations, Arab News reported.

Speaking ahead of his visit to his historic visit to the Kingdom, PM Modi praised the diaspora's role in strengthening bilateral ties and reaffirmed his government's commitment to their welfare and engagement through initiatives rooted in the motto of the 4Cs -- Care, Connect, Celebrate, and Contribute.

In an interview with Arab News, PM Modi said, 'First of all, let me put it on record that we are deeply grateful to Their Royal Highnesses, King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, for the patronage they have provided to the Indian community in Saudi Arabia. We can never forget how they took care of the Indians as one of their own during the difficult times of the Covid pandemic. Indians have a very important character -- whichever country they go, they make it their home. They are law abiding, dedicated and professional to the core. They carry with them the values of empathy, compassion and care.

'For my government, the members of the Indian diaspora are the 'rashtradoots' (national ambassadors). The 4Cs -- Care, Connect, Celebrate and Contribute -- is the motto of our engagement with our diaspora. Their safety, welfare and well-being is paramount for us,' PM Modi told Arab News.

Highlighting his government's continued commitment to the Indian diaspora, PM Modi reflected on the various initiatives launched over the past decade to support the Indian community in Saudi Arabia. From insurance schemes and scholarships to skilling programs and safe migration frameworks, he lauded the 2.7 million-strong diaspora as a 'living bridge' between India and Saudi Arabia.

'Over the past decade we have launched many initiatives, including insurance schemes, scholarships for their children, and skilling programs. We have established mechanisms for safe and legal migration. The 2.7 million vibrant Indian community in Saudi Arabia is a living bridge connecting our two countries. I commend them for not only preserving their values and traditions but also promoting them. I eagerly look forward to reconnecting with the Indian diaspora during this visit,' PM Modi said.

PM Modi also highlighted the cultural, religious, and educational ties between India and Saudi Arabia. He also underscored the tradition of Indian pilgrims travelling for Hajj and Umrah, the popularity of yoga, cricket, and Indian entertainment in the Kingdom.'Our people have interacted with each other since the days of 'Kalila wa Dimna.' The growing cultural connect between our countries is indicative of the understanding and appreciation for each other. As far as religious tourism is concerned, as you know we have a large Muslim population and they visit your beautiful country each year for Umrah and Hajj pilgrimage. We are grateful to the Saudi leadership for the continued assistance provided to Indian pilgrims. Yoga has gained considerable popularity in Saudi Arabia over the recent years, thanks to the encouragement and support of the Saudi government. We are also noticing a growing interest in cricket,' PM Modi told Arab News.

He added, 'I am told that Arab broadcasters run dedicated channels with Indian content that are very popular in the Kingdom. There is also a wide following for Indian films and actors. India is hosting the first edition of the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit in Mumbai during May 1-4. We look forward to a strong participation from Saudi Arabia at the summit so that we can give new wings to our cultural and entertainment collaboration.'

PM Modi departed for Saudi Arabia today at the invitation of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This will be PM Modi's third visit to the country, following earlier visits to Riyadh in 2016 and 2019. (ANI)