Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day visit to Saudi Arabia underscores the strengthened ties between India and the Kingdom, especially under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS). This trip marks the third visit of an Indian Prime Minister to Saudi Arabia, signaling the deepening strategic relationship and cooperation between the two nations.

Saudi Arabia's Transformation Under MBS

At the heart of Saudi Arabia's transformation is Vision 2030, an ambitious plan launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2016. The blueprint seeks to reduce the Kingdom's dependence on oil and foster a more diversified economy. Through Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is making significant strides in areas such as education, health, tourism, and infrastructure. The reforms are poised to transform the Kingdom into a global investment hub, connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa.

Major Social Reforms: Empowering Women

One of the most visible changes under MBS's leadership has been in the realm of women's rights. In 2018, Saudi Arabia made history by lifting the ban on women driving, a decision that symbolized a broader shift towards greater female participation in public life. Further, the Kingdom has introduced laws allowing women over the age of 21 to travel abroad without a male guardian’s permission. The growing empowerment of women is also evident in their increased access to employment opportunities and education. These progressive changes reflect Saudi Arabia's broader aim to modernize and integrate its workforce with global standards.

Relaxation of Social Norms

Social restrictions that once defined life in Saudi Arabia have been relaxed significantly. Public entertainment, such as concerts, cinemas, and sporting events, is now more common, marking a major cultural shift in a country previously known for its strict social codes. While the dress code remains conservative, foreign visitors and citizens in designated tourist areas experience a more relaxed approach to social norms.

Economic Diversification and Global Ties

A crucial component of Vision 2030 is economic diversification. Saudi Arabia is focusing on fostering growth in industries outside oil, including tourism, entertainment, and technology. The Kingdom's participation in the BRICS Summit illustrates its pivot towards a multipolar world order, strengthening ties with nations such as India, China, and Russia. This also reflects a growing desire to reduce reliance on traditional allies, such as Pakistan, as Saudi Arabia recalibrates its foreign policy to prioritize economic and strategic interests.

Vision 2030 and India's “Make in India”

While operating within vastly different socio-political contexts, Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and India’s Make in India initiative share similar goals. Both initiatives aim to diversify their economies, enhance global standing, and empower their citizens. Vision 2030 focuses on reshaping Saudi Arabia's social and economic landscape, while India's Make in India program is designed to promote manufacturing and entrepreneurship within the country. These shared objectives create a fertile ground for increased collaboration between the two nations, particularly in the technology, education, and manufacturing sectors.

Strengthening Saudi-India Relations

The visit of PM Modi to Saudi Arabia represents a significant moment in the strengthening of India-Saudi Arabia relations. The economic partnership between the two countries is expected to expand, with increasing cooperation in key sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing. The leaders of both nations see enormous potential in deepening economic ties, leveraging India’s large consumer base and Saudi Arabia’s drive for diversification.

In conclusion, the changes underway in Saudi Arabia, propelled by MBS’s Vision 2030, are not only reshaping the Kingdom’s economic landscape but also its social norms. The relationship between India and Saudi Arabia, fueled by shared strategic goals, is poised for significant growth, benefiting from these far-reaching reforms. As both countries look to the future, collaboration in areas such as technology, education, and manufacturing will play a crucial role in shaping their economic futures.

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