NEW DELHI : Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi discussed the West Asia situation in a phone conversation with Saudi Crown Prince and PM Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud while reviewing progress in bilateral ties.

The government said Modi reiterated India’s long-standing and principled position on the Israel-Palestine issue and called for continued humanitarian aid for the affected population.

“The two leaders agreed to work together for peace, security and stability in the region … The two leaders also discussed the conflict in the Red Sea, emphasising the need for maintaining maritime security and the freedom of navigation,’’ said an Indian readout. Modi had earlier discussed the threat to maritime security in the region from Iran-backed Houthi militants with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu.

The leaders also reviewed progress in bilateral strategic partnership, following the state visit of the Crown Prince to India in September 2023.

“They also discussed the forward-looking bilateral partnership agenda for the future. The Prime Minister conveyed greetings to Saudi Arabia on being selected as host for Expo 2030 and FIFA Football World Cup 2034,” said the government, adding that the two leaders agreed to remain in touch.

PM Modi later posted on X: “Held a good conversation with my Brother HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud on the future of Strategic Partnership between India and Saudi Arabia. We exchanged views on the West Asia situation and shared concerns regarding terrorism, violence and the loss of civilian lives. Agreed to work together for peace, security and stability in the region.”