I am delighted to learn that Arab News is celebrating its 39th anniversary. It has indeed been a marvelous journey, a journey being witness to the transformation of Saudi Arabia as an economic powerhouse of the world and an influential player in the region and beyond.
Arab News has also been a key partner in the transformation of India-Saudi Arabia relations to one of “strategic partnership” focusing on political, economic, defense and security aspects. Arab News through its wide coverage of India and Indo-Saudi relations contributes in building this partnership for the benefit of not only the peole of our two countries but also the people of the region and beyond. Its support in promoting people-to-people interaction and in enhancing our two-way trade, which stands at $43 billion needs special mention. Its unbiased coverage of the regional issues and spot on analysis of the issues of the region makes it a must first read for every serious diplomat.
I would like to place on record my appreciation and gratitude to Arab News for its support in the efforts of the Embassy of India in fully utilizing the concessions announced by Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah in April 2013.
I wish the management and staff of Arab News and its readers a very happy anniversary.

Hamid Ali Rao
India’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia