Indian army chief General MM Naravane’s ears to Saudi Arabia and Saudi Arabia tour of Pakistan have raised their ears. After the deterioration of relations with Saudi and UAE, the Indian Army Chief’s visit is deriving many meanings. This is the first visit by an army chief of India to these two countries. According to the Indian Army, General Narwane will first go to UAE and stay there till December 12. He will visit Saudi Arabia on 13 and 14 December. During this tour, he will meet senior officers of military of both Gulf countries. They will be discussed on strengthening defense relations with India.
General Narwane will visit the Royal Saudi Land Force and Joint Force headquarters of Saudi Arabia. He will visit the King Abdul Aziz Military Academy. The army chief will also meet the students and faculty of Saudi Arabia’s Defense University. Relations between India and Saudi Arabia have improved over the years. Saudi Arabia has also shown interest in building defense equipment with India. The army chief can also talk to the officers there on this issue. Saudi Arabia is India’s fourth largest trade partner after China, America and Japan. It is also important to supply fuel in India. Saudi Arabia imports around 18% of crude oil in India.