PM Modi, Saudi Crown Prince discuss Middle East crisis, push for open sea lanes | India News
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday held a telephonic conversation with Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman, during which the two leaders discussed the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.In a post by X, Prime Minister Modi Said he reiterated India’s condemnation of attacks on regional energy infrastructure and agreed to ensure freedom of navigation and keep shipping lines open and secure.
“Talked to the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman and discussed the ongoing conflict in West Asia. I reiterated India’s condemnation of attacks on regional power infrastructure. We agreed on the need to ensure freedom of navigation and keep shipping lines open and secure. Thank him for his continued support for the welfare of the Indian community in Saudi Arabia,” he said.This was the second telephone conversation between Prime Minister Modi and the Crown Prince since the Middle East conflict broke out on February 28.The crisis has seen the United States and Israel launch attacks on Iran, while Tehran has retaliated by targeting Israel and locations across the region.Iran’s strategic control of the Strait of Hormuz – a vital corridor that carries about 20 percent of the world’s energy supplies – has raised global concerns. Since the increase, shipping through the route has been significantly limited.He also spoke with US President Donald Trump, describing the conversation as a “useful exchange of views” on the evolving situation in the Middle East.
