Riyadh: The Embassy of India celebrated the 76th Independence Day with members of the Indian community and friends of India in Riyadh on Monday. The event had the enthusiastic participation of more than seven hundred people which included diplomats, Saudi nationals, journalists, and members of the Indian community.
The celebration began with the hoisting of the tricolour by Mr N. Ram Prasad, Charge d' Affaires of India to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Following that, he read out the President's message to the nation and Indians around the world on the occasion. The flag hoisting ceremony was followed by a cultural program presented by members of the Indian diaspora.
This year, India is commemorating the 75th anniversary of its independence as Azadi Ka Amrith Mahotsav, and as part of this Indian embassies and diaspora members around the world have organized a number of cultural and commercial events.
In Saudi Arabia, the Embassy has hosted multiple iconic events, including an international film festival, a golf tournament, a distinguished speaker series, and multiple exhibitions. This commemoration coincides with the 75th anniversary of India and Saudi Arabia's diplomatic relationship. In recent years, the bilateral ties between India and Saudi Arabia have strengthened to unprecedented levels. Both India and Saudi Arabia are strategic partners and have strong commercial ties. The two G-20 partners have bilateral trade worth USD 43 billion and bilateral investment exchanges have also increased significantly to reach historic heights.