India, Saudi Arabia vow to fight terrorism

RIYADH, JAN. 20. India today asked Saudi Arabia to join hands in fighting terrorism saying the two countries were committed to the U.N. principles of strengthening global peace, security and stability.

``Today, our two countries share a commitment to peace and stability in our region and rejection of all forms of extremism and violence,'' the Prime Minister, Mr. Atal Behari Vajpayee, said in a letter to the Saudi Crown Prince and Deputy Prime Minister, Mr. Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz.

``There is much that we can do together as partners to make our region and the world a more tranquil place for our people,'' Mr. Vajpayee said in a letter delivered by the External Affairs Minister, Mr. Jaswant Singh, to Prince Abdullah at their meeting here.

Earlier, Mr. Singh held wide-ranging discussions with the Saudi Foreign Minister, Prince Saud al Faisal on bilateral, regional and international issues. Declaring their mutual desire to upgrade their political contacts and cooperation and promote bilateral relations in various fields, Mr. Singh and Prince Faisal signed a memorandum of understanding for coordination and consultation between the two Governments on all regional and international issues of mutual interest.

The two sides expressed their commitment to the aims and principles of the U.N. to strengthen peace, security and stability across the world. Acknowledging the usefulness of consultations and exchange of opinion at various levels, the two sides agreed to coordinate at the U.N. General Assembly and other international fora. The MoU said the two countries shall hold annual meetings, periodically or whenever needed between their senior officials. Stating that the meetings shall be held alternatively in Riyadh and New Delhi, the two sides also agreed to endeavour to exchange information and experiences in the fields of studies, research and training.

Mr. Singh also met the Saudi Industries Minister, Hashim Abdullah Yamani.

Mr. Vajpayee, in his letter to the Crown Prince, invited him to visit India. ``Your visit would enable us to discuss all aspects of our bilateral relations and also exchange views on international issues of mutual interest and concern,'' he said adding that precise dates of the visit could be firmed up through diplomatic channels.

- PTI

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