JEDDAH: On the occasion of the 69th Republic Day of India, I extend my best wishes to all my fellow Indian citizens residing in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia.India and Saudi Arabia enjoy cordial and friendly relations reflecting the centuries old economic and socio-cultural ties. With the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Saudi Arabia in April 2016, the level of bilateral engagement between the two countries has reached new heights. The existence of an over 3.25 million strong Indian expatriate community in the Kingdom and out of which about 1.3 million in the Western region has also immensely contributed in economic and socio-cultural ties between the two countries. The increase in mutual business delegations is a welcome trend.The government and the people of India are grateful to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman and Hajj Minister Dr. Benten for making excellent arrangements during Hajj-2017. For the year 2018, 1,75,025 Indian nationals will be coming for Hajj. The Indian side remains committed to partnering closely with Saudi Arabia to work toward a very successful Hajj 2018.We are grateful to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for giving Amnesty last year. We would also like to thank the Saudi Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Labour, Interior and the Authorities of Zawazat, Tarheel and other concerned agencies which have always provided best possible assistance to us. The consulate facilitated the exit of more than 10,000 Indian nationals by availing this facility. The consulate has also strengthened the grievance redressal mechanism. The consulate makes best efforts to issue new passports within three working days. We remain committed to extend best the possible services to the Indian community in the Western province of Saudi Arabia.Jai Hind!