Saudi Arabia's crown prince warned in an interview broadcast on Sunday that oil prices could spike to "unimaginably high numbers" if the world does not come together to deter Iran, but said he would prefer a political solution to a military one. Watch this video to know more.

Saudi crown prince warns of escalation with Iran, says he prefers political solution

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mbs-denies-killing-journalist-jamal-khashoggi-252896">Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman</a> on Monday denied his involvement in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jamal-khashoggis-killing-a-murder-that-shook-2018-186106">killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi</a>.

Speaking to the CBS programme "60 Minutes," Mohammed bin Salman, the kingdom's de facto ruler, however, added that he ultimately bears "full responsibility" as the leader of his country.

Days before the anniversary of the killing of Khashoggi in a Saudi consulate in Turkey, the crown prince said, "Absolutely not," when asked if he ordered the murder.

"Since it was committed by individuals working for the Saudi government. This was a mistake. And I must take all actions to avoid such a thing in the future," the crown prince added.

Asked about how the killing could have happened without him knowing about it," the crown prince said, "Some think that I should know what 3 million people working for the Saudi government do daily. It's impossible that the 3 million would send their daily reports to the leader or the second-highest person in the Saudi government."

Watch: MBS denies killing journalist Jamal Khashoggi

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He insisted that "the investigations are being carried out, and once charges are proven against someone, regardless of their rank, it will be taken to court, no exception made."

Khashoggi, a Washington Post columnist, was last seen at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2, where he was to receive papers ahead of his wedding. His body was dismembered and removed from the building, according to reports, and his remains have not been found.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Monday denied his involvement in the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Speaking to the CBS programme "60 Minutes," Mohammed bin Salman, the kingdom's de facto ruler, however, added that he ultimately bears "full responsibility" as the leader of his country.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Monday denied his involvement in the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Speaking to the CBS programme "60 Minutes," Mohammed bin Salman, the kingdom's de facto ruler, however, added that he ultimately bears "full responsibility" as the leader of his country. Days before the anniversary of the killing of Khashoggi in a Saudi consulate in Turkey, the crown prince said, "Absolutely not," when asked if he ordered the murder. "Since it was committed by individuals working for the Saudi government. This was a mistake. And I must take all actions to avoid such a thing in the future," the crown prince added. Asked about how the killing could have happened without him knowing about it," the crown prince said, "Some think that I should know what 3 million people working for the Saudi government do daily. It's impossible that the 3 million would send their daily reports to the leader or the second-highest person in the Saudi government." Watch: MBS denies killing journalist Jamal Khashoggi × He insisted that "the investigations are being carried out, and once charges are proven against someone, regardless of their rank, it will be taken to court, no exception made." Khashoggi, a Washington Post columnist, was last seen at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2, where he was to receive papers ahead of his wedding. His body was dismembered and removed from the building, according to reports, and his remains have not been found. (With inputs from Reuters)

'Absolutely not': Saudi Crown Prince Salman denies involvement in Khashoggi murder

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-economic-crisis-countrys-debts-liabilities-exceed-the-size-of-its-gdp-245554">Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan</a> on Monday night briefed Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman about Kashmir issue over a phone call, reported ARY News.

It was the third time the two leaders talked to discuss regional developments since India abrogated the special status of Jammu and Kashmir.

Previously, Khan had called MBS and discussed the issue last week. Pakistan has been rattled by the Indian government's move to strip the special status to Jammu and Kashmir and has found itself completely isolated despite desperate attempts aimed at internationalising the issue.

Islamabad has been snubbed on all fronts as the international community has made it clear that the Kashmir issue is strictly New Delhi`s internal matter.

The Pakistan government has downgraded bilateral ties with India in the wake of the decision and said it will consider all steps to counter what it described "illegal steps" taken by New Delhi.

Two days after New Delhi revoked the Article, Khan had "briefed" the Saudi prince.

"During the call, they discussed the development of the situation in the region and efforts exerted towards it," the official Saudi Press Agency(SPA), the agency had reported.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday night briefed Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman about Kashmir issue over a phone call, reported ARY News. It was the third time the two leaders talked to discuss regional developments since India abrogated the special status of Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday night briefed Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman about Kashmir issue over a phone call, reported ARY News. It was the third time the two leaders talked to discuss regional developments since India abrogated the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. Previously, Khan had called MBS and discussed the issue last week. Pakistan has been rattled by the Indian government's move to strip the special status to Jammu and Kashmir and has found itself completely isolated despite desperate attempts aimed at internationalising the issue. Islamabad has been snubbed on all fronts as the international community has made it clear that the Kashmir issue is strictly New Delhi`s internal matter. The Pakistan government has downgraded bilateral ties with India in the wake of the decision and said it will consider all steps to counter what it described "illegal steps" taken by New Delhi. Two days after New Delhi revoked the Article, Khan had "briefed" the Saudi prince. "During the call, they discussed the development of the situation in the region and efforts exerted towards it," the official Saudi Press Agency(SPA), the agency had reported.

Imran Khan, Saudi Crown Prince discuss Kashmir issue third time

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-secretary-mike-pompeo-makes-history-in-pohnpei-courts-pacific-allies-240834">US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo</a> discussed maritime security, Iran and Yemen with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in a phone call on Wednesday.

"The secretary discussed heightened tensions in the region and the need for stronger maritime security in order to promote freedom of navigation," State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said in a statement.

Iran has seized three tanker ships in strategic Gulf waters in a month, and the United States has accused it of carrying out multiple attacks on ships in the region.

The US has been struggling to piece together an international coalition to protect cargo ships travelling through the Gulf, with allies concerned about being dragged into conflict with Iran.

Ortagus also said that the top US diplomat and the crown prince "discussed other bilateral and regional developments, including countering the Iranian regime's destabilizing activities."

Tensions between Washington and Tehran -- Saudi Arabia's arch foe -- have soared since US President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of a nuclear deal with Iran last year and imposed punishing sanctions.

Twelve months on from the US withdrawal, Iran responded by suspending some of its commitments under the nuclear deal.

Iran meanwhile shot down an American drone in June, with Trump saying he called off retaliatory air strikes at the last minute, and the United States says it has since downed one and possibly two of Tehran's unmanned aircraft, which the Islamic republic has denied.

On Yemen, "the secretary and the crown prince reaffirmed their strong support for UN Special Envoy Martin Griffiths' efforts to advance the political process," Ortagus said.

Saudi Arabia is locked in a bloody war in the country against the Iran-backed Huthis, a conflict that has killed tens of thousands of people, many of them civilians, relief agencies say.

Trump vetoed congressional resolutions last month that would have blocked arms sales to the kingdom that critics fear would aggravate the devastating Yemen war, which the UN said has triggered the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo discussed maritime security, Iran and Yemen with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in a phone call on Wednesday. "The secretary discussed heightened tensions in the region and the need for stronger maritime security in order to promote freedom of navigation," State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said in a statement.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo discussed maritime security, Iran and Yemen with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in a phone call on Wednesday. "The secretary discussed heightened tensions in the region and the need for stronger maritime security in order to promote freedom of navigation," State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said in a statement. Iran has seized three tanker ships in strategic Gulf waters in a month, and the United States has accused it of carrying out multiple attacks on ships in the region. The US has been struggling to piece together an international coalition to protect cargo ships travelling through the Gulf, with allies concerned about being dragged into conflict with Iran. Ortagus also said that the top US diplomat and the crown prince "discussed other bilateral and regional developments, including countering the Iranian regime's destabilizing activities." Tensions between Washington and Tehran -- Saudi Arabia's arch foe -- have soared since US President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of a nuclear deal with Iran last year and imposed punishing sanctions. Twelve months on from the US withdrawal, Iran responded by suspending some of its commitments under the nuclear deal. Iran meanwhile shot down an American drone in June, with Trump saying he called off retaliatory air strikes at the last minute, and the United States says it has since downed one and possibly two of Tehran's unmanned aircraft, which the Islamic republic has denied. On Yemen, "the secretary and the crown prince reaffirmed their strong support for UN Special Envoy Martin Griffiths' efforts to advance the political process," Ortagus said. Saudi Arabia is locked in a bloody war in the country against the Iran-backed Huthis, a conflict that has killed tens of thousands of people, many of them civilians, relief agencies say. Trump vetoed congressional resolutions last month that would have blocked arms sales to the kingdom that critics fear would aggravate the devastating Yemen war, which the UN said has triggered the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

Pompeo talks maritime security, Iran with Saudi crown prince

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-summit-us-china-high-stakes-bilateral-meeting-gets-underway-in-osaka-231356">G20 Summit: Trump says open to 'historic' trade deal with China</a>

US President Donald Trump said Saturday he was ready for a "historic" deal with China as he kicked off a hotly awaited meeting with China's Xi Jinping, with the world watching to see if they can strike a deal over their long-running trade war.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-offers-to-meet-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-at-dmz-this-weekend-231334">'I would meet Kim at demilitarised zone to shake hand, say hello', tweets Trump</a>

US President Donald Trump said on Saturday he would like to meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un this weekend at the demilitarised zone (DMZ) on the border of North and South Korea.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-holds-bilateral-talks-with-indonesian-presdient-joko-widodo-brazilian-president-jair-bolsonaro-at-g20-summit-in-japans-osaka-231351">PM Modi holds bilateral talks with Indonesia, Brazil leaders at G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday met Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-least-14-dead-after-wall-collapses-in-punes-kondhwa-area-231340">Four children among 17 dead after wall collapse in Pune's Kondhwa area</a>

Four children and a woman among 17 dead on Saturday following a wall collapse in Pune's Kondhwa area.

The compound wall collapsed around 1.45 am on Friday night in the Kondhawa area, an official said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-crown-prince-mohammed-bin-salman-doing-spectacular-job-donald-trump-231336">Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman doing 'spectacular job': Donald Trump</a>

US President Donald Trump Saturday praised Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, saying he was doing a "spectacular job" as the pair met on the sidelines of the G20 summit.

G20 Summit: Trump says open to 'historic' trade deal with China US President Donald Trump said Saturday he was ready for a "historic" deal with China as he kicked off a hotly awaited meeting with China's Xi Jinping, with the world watching to see if they can strike a deal over their long-running trade war.

G20 Summit: Trump says open to 'historic' trade deal with China US President Donald Trump said Saturday he was ready for a "historic" deal with China as he kicked off a hotly awaited meeting with China's Xi Jinping, with the world watching to see if they can strike a deal over their long-running trade war. 'I would meet Kim at demilitarised zone to shake hand, say hello', tweets Trump US President Donald Trump said on Saturday he would like to meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un this weekend at the demilitarised zone (DMZ) on the border of North and South Korea. PM Modi holds bilateral talks with Indonesia, Brazil leaders at G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday met Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka. Four children among 17 dead after wall collapse in Pune's Kondhwa area Four children and a woman among 17 dead on Saturday following a wall collapse in Pune's Kondhwa area. The compound wall collapsed around 1.45 am on Friday night in the Kondhawa area, an official said. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman doing 'spectacular job': Donald Trump US President Donald Trump Saturday praised Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, saying he was doing a "spectacular job" as the pair met on the sidelines of the G20 summit.

News brief: Big stories of the day

President Donald Trump said on Saturday he appreciated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-angry-about-khashoggi-murder-but-says-no-one-blames-crown-prince-mohammed-bin-salman-231433">Saudi Arabia</a>`s purchase of US military equipment, calling Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman a "friend of mine" who had worked to open up the country with economic and social reforms.

"It`s an honour to be with the crown prince of Saudi Arabia, a friend of mine - a man who has really done things in the last five years in terms of opening up Saudi Arabia," Trump said ahead of a bilateral meeting with the crown prince, known as MbS, in Osaka, Japan.

"I think especially what you’ve done for women and seeing what’s happening - it’s like a revolution in a very positive way," he added on the sidelines of the Group of 20 (G20) summit.

Trump declined to respond to reporters` questions on whether he would address the death last year of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a critic of MbS.

The CIA has determined the prince ordered his killing, but Saudi officials have denied any involvement.

President Donald Trump said on Saturday he appreciated Saudi Arabia`s purchase of US military equipment, calling Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman a "friend of mine" who had worked to open up the country with economic and social reforms.

President Donald Trump said on Saturday he appreciated Saudi Arabia`s purchase of US military equipment, calling Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman a "friend of mine" who had worked to open up the country with economic and social reforms. "It`s an honour to be with the crown prince of Saudi Arabia, a friend of mine - a man who has really done things in the last five years in terms of opening up Saudi Arabia," Trump said ahead of a bilateral meeting with the crown prince, known as MbS, in Osaka, Japan. "I think especially what you’ve done for women and seeing what’s happening - it’s like a revolution in a very positive way," he added on the sidelines of the Group of 20 (G20) summit. Trump declined to respond to reporters` questions on whether he would address the death last year of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a critic of MbS. The CIA has determined the prince ordered his killing, but Saudi officials have denied any involvement.

Trump says he 'appreciates' Saudi purchase of US military equipment

Even by the diplomatic standards, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-talks-with-world-leaders-at-g20-pm-modi-discusses-indo-pacific-terrorism-situation-in-gulf-231173">the first day of the G20 Summit</a> was not only hectic but showed how India was a sought after country at the event in Osaka.&nbsp;

While the two trilateral meetings with Russia, China and Japan, America - along with informal BRICS meet - dominated the day, key bilaterals with countries such as Saudi Arabia were an important element of the day.

Other than PM's much-touted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-have-become-great-friends-well-work-together-in-many-ways-including-military-trump-to-pm-modi-at-g20-231285">bilateral meeting with US President Donald Trump</a>, he met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, South Korean President Moon Jae-in, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron.

With the Saudi Crown Prince, the PM discussed the current Gulf situation.

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale stated, "They discussed the situation in the Gulf and the prime minister said that this could impact the oil prices which is important for India. The PM appreciated the efforts by Saudi Arabia in ensuring oil supplies have remained stable and oil prices have remained predictable in the last few months".

"Iran wasn't discussed," the Foreign Secretary added.

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Met Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. We reviewed the full range of relations between India and Saudi Arabia. Our talks today will add great strength to bilateral ties between our nations. <a href="https://t.co/N15PFEUZgR">pic.twitter.com/N15PFEUZgR</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1144473374162219008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Crown Prince has invited PM Modi for a conference to his country which will happen later this year. The Haj quota has also been increased for Indians from 170,000 to 200,000.

While with Merkel, PM Modi discussed artificial intelligence, railway modernisation; with South Korea, the focus was on visa regime improvement between the two countries. South Korea has recently liberalized group visas for Indian tourists.

The PM also had pull-aside meetings with Vietnamese PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc and World Bank President &nbsp;David Malpass. He also met several world leaders such as Canadian PM Justin Trudeau.

PM Modi will be meeting Indonesian President Joko Widodo, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, Italian PM Giuseppe Conte, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong, President of Chile Sebastián Piñera, and Australian PM Scott Morrison on the second and the final day of the G20 summit on Saturday. 
&nbsp;

Even by the diplomatic standards, the first day of the G20 Summit was not only hectic but showed how India was a sought after country at the event in Osaka. While the two trilateral meetings with Russia, China and Japan, America - along with informal BRICS meet - dominated the day, key bilaterals with countries such as Saudi Arabia were an important element of the day.

Even by the diplomatic standards, the first day of the G20 Summit was not only hectic but showed how India was a sought after country at the event in Osaka. While the two trilateral meetings with Russia, China and Japan, America - along with informal BRICS meet - dominated the day, key bilaterals with countries such as Saudi Arabia were an important element of the day. Other than PM's much-touted bilateral meeting with US President Donald Trump, he met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, South Korean President Moon Jae-in, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron. With the Saudi Crown Prince, the PM discussed the current Gulf situation. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale stated, "They discussed the situation in the Gulf and the prime minister said that this could impact the oil prices which is important for India. The PM appreciated the efforts by Saudi Arabia in ensuring oil supplies have remained stable and oil prices have remained predictable in the last few months". "Iran wasn't discussed," the Foreign Secretary added. Met Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. We reviewed the full range of relations between India and Saudi Arabia. Our talks today will add great strength to bilateral ties between our nations. pic.twitter.com/N15PFEUZgR — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 28, 2019 × The Crown Prince has invited PM Modi for a conference to his country which will happen later this year. The Haj quota has also been increased for Indians from 170,000 to 200,000. While with Merkel, PM Modi discussed artificial intelligence, railway modernisation; with South Korea, the focus was on visa regime improvement between the two countries. South Korea has recently liberalized group visas for Indian tourists. The PM also had pull-aside meetings with Vietnamese PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc and World Bank President David Malpass. He also met several world leaders such as Canadian PM Justin Trudeau. PM Modi will be meeting Indonesian President Joko Widodo, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, Italian PM Giuseppe Conte, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong, President of Chile Sebastián Piñera, and Australian PM Scott Morrison on the second and the final day of the G20 summit on Saturday.

PM Modi meets global leaders at G20; discusses oil prices with Saudi Crown Prince

Evidence suggests <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-crown-prince-warns-against-exploiting-khashoggi-murder-227519">Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman</a> and other senior Saudi officials are liable for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jamal-khashoggis-killing-a-murder-that-shook-2018-186106">murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi</a>, a UN rights investigator said on Wednesday.

There was no immediate reaction from Riyadh which was sent the 100-page report in advance - but the kingdom has regularly denied accusations that the prince was involved.

Agnes Callamard, the UN special rapporteur on extrajudicial executions, called for countries to widen sanctions to include the Crown Prince and his personal assets, until and unless he can prove he has no responsibility.

Khashoggi, a critic of the prince and a Washington Post columnist, was last seen at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2 where he was to receive papers ahead of his wedding.

His body was dismembered and removed from the building, the Saudi prosecutor has said, and his remains have not been found.

"It is the conclusion of the Special Rapporteur that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-post-publishes-jamal-khashoggis-last-piece-172051">Mr. Khashoggi</a> has been the victim of a deliberate, premeditated execution, an extrajudicial killing for which the state of Saudi Arabia is responsible under international human rights law," Callamard said in her report based on a six-month investigation.

Callamard went to Turkey earlier this year with a team of forensic and legal experts and said she received evidence from Turkish authorities.

"There is credible evidence, warranting further investigation of high-level Saudi officials' individual liability, including the Crown Prince's", she said.

"Indeed, this human rights inquiry has shown that there is sufficient credible evidence regarding the responsibility of the Crown Prince demanding further investigation," she added, urging UN Secretary-General to establish an international probe.

Evidence suggests Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other senior Saudi officials are liable for the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a UN rights investigator said on Wednesday.

Evidence suggests Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other senior Saudi officials are liable for the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a UN rights investigator said on Wednesday. There was no immediate reaction from Riyadh which was sent the 100-page report in advance - but the kingdom has regularly denied accusations that the prince was involved. Agnes Callamard, the UN special rapporteur on extrajudicial executions, called for countries to widen sanctions to include the Crown Prince and his personal assets, until and unless he can prove he has no responsibility. Khashoggi, a critic of the prince and a Washington Post columnist, was last seen at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2 where he was to receive papers ahead of his wedding. His body was dismembered and removed from the building, the Saudi prosecutor has said, and his remains have not been found. "It is the conclusion of the Special Rapporteur that Mr. Khashoggi has been the victim of a deliberate, premeditated execution, an extrajudicial killing for which the state of Saudi Arabia is responsible under international human rights law," Callamard said in her report based on a six-month investigation. Callamard went to Turkey earlier this year with a team of forensic and legal experts and said she received evidence from Turkish authorities. "There is credible evidence, warranting further investigation of high-level Saudi officials' individual liability, including the Crown Prince's", she said. "Indeed, this human rights inquiry has shown that there is sufficient credible evidence regarding the responsibility of the Crown Prince demanding further investigation," she added, urging UN Secretary-General to establish an international probe.

Evidence suggests Saudi Crown Prince is liable for Khashoggi murder: UN expert

Saudi Crown Prince <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-costliest-painting-salvator-mundi-hosted-on-saudi-prince-mohammed-bin-salmans-yacht-report-226096">Mohammed bin Salman</a> accused rival Iran of attacks on two oil tankers in a vital Gulf shipping channel, adding he "won't hesitate" to tackle any threats to the kingdom, according to excerpts of an interview published on Sunday.

"The Iranian regime did not respect the presence of the Japanese prime minister as a guest in Tehran and responded to his (diplomatic) efforts by attacking two tankers, one of which was Japanese," Prince Mohammed told pan-Arab daily Asharq al-Awsat, referring to the attacks in the Gulf of Oman on Thursday.

Gulf tankers attack: US rescues Japanese crew from tanker

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"We do not want a war in the region... But we won't hesitate to deal with any threat to our people, our sovereignty, our territorial integrity and our vital interests," he added.

The twin attacks sent crude prices soaring amid a tense standoff between Iran and the US.

The Japanese-owned Kokuka Courageous was carrying highly flammable methanol through the Gulf of Oman when it was rocked by explosions, causing a blaze that was quickly extinguished.

A tanker owned by Oslo-listed company Frontline was also targeted. The two vessels were attacked around the time Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was meeting with Iranian leaders in Tehran.

US President Donald Trump said the attacks had Iran "written all over it". 
Tehran has vehemently denied any involvement.

Saudi Arabia, a close US ally, is a bitter regional rival of Iran. Iran has repeatedly warned in the past that it could block the strategic Hormuz Strait in a relatively low-tech, high-impact countermeasure to any attack by the United States.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman accused rival Iran of attacks on two oil tankers in a vital Gulf shipping channel, adding he "won't hesitate" to tackle any threats to the kingdom, according to excerpts of an interview published on Sunday.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman accused rival Iran of attacks on two oil tankers in a vital Gulf shipping channel, adding he "won't hesitate" to tackle any threats to the kingdom, according to excerpts of an interview published on Sunday. "The Iranian regime did not respect the presence of the Japanese prime minister as a guest in Tehran and responded to his (diplomatic) efforts by attacking two tankers, one of which was Japanese," Prince Mohammed told pan-Arab daily Asharq al-Awsat, referring to the attacks in the Gulf of Oman on Thursday. Gulf tankers attack: US rescues Japanese crew from tanker "We do not want a war in the region... But we won't hesitate to deal with any threat to our people, our sovereignty, our territorial integrity and our vital interests," he added. The twin attacks sent crude prices soaring amid a tense standoff between Iran and the US. The Japanese-owned Kokuka Courageous was carrying highly flammable methanol through the Gulf of Oman when it was rocked by explosions, causing a blaze that was quickly extinguished. A tanker owned by Oslo-listed company Frontline was also targeted. The two vessels were attacked around the time Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was meeting with Iranian leaders in Tehran. US President Donald Trump said the attacks had Iran "written all over it". Tehran has vehemently denied any involvement. Saudi Arabia, a close US ally, is a bitter regional rival of Iran. Iran has repeatedly warned in the past that it could block the strategic Hormuz Strait in a relatively low-tech, high-impact countermeasure to any attack by the United States.

Saudi prince blames Iran for tanker attacks, says won’t hesitate on ‘threats’

US President Donald Trump spoke with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman by phone on Tuesday, discussing Riyadh's role in Middle East stability, maintaining pressure on Iran and the importance of human rights issues, the White House said.

Washington's Middle East ally faces rising pressure over its handling of the war in Yemen and moves to stifle internal dissent, including the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi and prosecution of women's rights activists.

A bipartisan chorus of US&nbsp;lawmakers has called on the White House to harden its stance toward Saudi Arabia after Khashoggi was killed at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul.

US&nbsp;intelligence believes the crown prince ordered the killing, which Saudi officials deny.

Trump has said the US&nbsp;partnership with Saudi Arabia is important for the US economy and maintaining stability in the region.

The US State Department on Monday publicly designated 16 people for their role in Khashoggi's death and said they and their families would be barred from entering the United States.

The United States on Monday also designated Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organisation, drawing an angry reaction from Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Tuesday.

The White House said Trump used the call with the crown prince to discuss ways of "maintaining maximum pressure against Iran." Saudi Arabia is leading a coalition battling Iranian-backed Houthi insurgents in Yemen.

US President Donald Trump spoke with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman by phone on Tuesday, discussing Riyadh's role in Middle East stability, maintaining pressure on Iran and the importance of human rights issues, the White House said.

US President Donald Trump spoke with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman by phone on Tuesday, discussing Riyadh's role in Middle East stability, maintaining pressure on Iran and the importance of human rights issues, the White House said. Washington's Middle East ally faces rising pressure over its handling of the war in Yemen and moves to stifle internal dissent, including the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi and prosecution of women's rights activists. A bipartisan chorus of US lawmakers has called on the White House to harden its stance toward Saudi Arabia after Khashoggi was killed at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. US intelligence believes the crown prince ordered the killing, which Saudi officials deny. Trump has said the US partnership with Saudi Arabia is important for the US economy and maintaining stability in the region. The US State Department on Monday publicly designated 16 people for their role in Khashoggi's death and said they and their families would be barred from entering the United States. The United States on Monday also designated Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organisation, drawing an angry reaction from Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Tuesday. The White House said Trump used the call with the crown prince to discuss ways of "maintaining maximum pressure against Iran." Saudi Arabia is leading a coalition battling Iranian-backed Houthi insurgents in Yemen.

Trump discussed Iran, human rights with Saudi crown prince: White House

Pakistan's interior ministry ordered investigations into six journalists who had posted pictures online of murdered <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-journalist-khashoggis-children-paid-by-saudi-arabia-report-207324">Saudi columnist Jamal Khashoggi</a>, global media watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF) said Monday.

RSF said it was "appalled" to learn of the investigations, adding that it "condemns this latest case of intimidation, especially given the Pakistani police's past behaviour towards dissident journalists".

The investigations had been ordered in a letter dated March 13 from the cyber crime wing of the Federal Investigation Agency, part of the interior ministry, the group said in a statement.

AFP has been unable to independently verify the letter, which has been widely circulated on social media, and Pakistani officials have not responded to requests for comment.

According to RSF, the FIA letter named the journalists as part of what it called "a targeted social media campaign" against Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman during his visit to Pakistan in February.

The campaign consisted of "repeatedly posting photos of Jamal Khashoggi... Throughout the crown prince's visit", the watchdog said.

The visit came five months after the crown prince came under intense pressure following the murder of Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul.

Khashoggi had been a fierce critic of the prince, and his killing ignited a diplomatic crisis.

Pakistan, long allied with Saudi Arabia, was seeking much-needed investment during the visit.

The letter said posting Khashoggi's pictures online "conveyed a very disrespectful message" towards the visiting crown prince.

Daniel Bastard, the head of RSF's Asia-Pacific desk, said: "This kind of harassment of journalists, whose only crime is posting content online that displeases the authorities, is symptomatic of the treatment that the Pakistani political establishment reserves for dissidents."&nbsp;

"The six journalists targeted by these investigations by the FIA are known for being outspoken on social networks, which are now the only place where they can express themselves freely," he added.

Pakistan routinely ranks among the world's most dangerous countries for media workers.

Coverage critical of the country's powerful military is considered a red flag, with reporters at times detained, beaten and even killed for running afoul of the security establishment.

During his visit to Islamabad, the Saudi crown prince ending up signing investment deals worth up to $20 billion.&nbsp;

Pakistan's interior ministry ordered investigations into six journalists who had posted pictures online of murdered Saudi columnist Jamal Khashoggi, global media watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF) said Monday.

Pakistan's interior ministry ordered investigations into six journalists who had posted pictures online of murdered Saudi columnist Jamal Khashoggi, global media watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF) said Monday. RSF said it was "appalled" to learn of the investigations, adding that it "condemns this latest case of intimidation, especially given the Pakistani police's past behaviour towards dissident journalists". The investigations had been ordered in a letter dated March 13 from the cyber crime wing of the Federal Investigation Agency, part of the interior ministry, the group said in a statement. AFP has been unable to independently verify the letter, which has been widely circulated on social media, and Pakistani officials have not responded to requests for comment. According to RSF, the FIA letter named the journalists as part of what it called "a targeted social media campaign" against Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman during his visit to Pakistan in February. The campaign consisted of "repeatedly posting photos of Jamal Khashoggi... Throughout the crown prince's visit", the watchdog said. The visit came five months after the crown prince came under intense pressure following the murder of Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. Khashoggi had been a fierce critic of the prince, and his killing ignited a diplomatic crisis. Pakistan, long allied with Saudi Arabia, was seeking much-needed investment during the visit. The letter said posting Khashoggi's pictures online "conveyed a very disrespectful message" towards the visiting crown prince. Daniel Bastard, the head of RSF's Asia-Pacific desk, said: "This kind of harassment of journalists, whose only crime is posting content online that displeases the authorities, is symptomatic of the treatment that the Pakistani political establishment reserves for dissidents." "The six journalists targeted by these investigations by the FIA are known for being outspoken on social networks, which are now the only place where they can express themselves freely," he added. Pakistan routinely ranks among the world's most dangerous countries for media workers. Coverage critical of the country's powerful military is considered a red flag, with reporters at times detained, beaten and even killed for running afoul of the security establishment. During his visit to Islamabad, the Saudi crown prince ending up signing investment deals worth up to $20 billion.

Pakistan ordered journalist probe over Khashoggi pics: RSF

More than a year before the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, Saudi Arabia's powerful Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman approved a secret campaign to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-crown-prince-was-in-constant-touch-with-khashoggi-kill-team-wsj-181054">silence dissenters</a>, The New York Times reported on Sunday.

The campaign included surveillance, kidnapping, detention and torture of Saudis, said the report which cited US officials who have read classified intelligence reports about the effort.

American officials referred to it as the Saudi Rapid Intervention Group, the Times said.

At least some of the clandestine missions were carried out by members of the team that killed and dismembered Khashoggi in October at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, suggesting his murder was part of a wider campaign against dissidents, the report said, citing the US officials and associates of some Saudi victims.

The murder of Khashoggi, a Washington Post contributing columnist, generated global outrage including an order from US senators for President Donald Trump to designate and punish those responsible.

He did not comply.

The senators, briefed by the heads of US intelligence agencies, said they were convinced that Prince Mohammad was responsible for the Khashoggi killing.

Saudi Arabia has stressed the prince was not involved.

The kingdom initially said it had no knowledge of Khashoggi's fate but later blamed rogue agents for his death.

Saudi Arabia's public prosecutor has charged 11 people over his murder.

Among its activities, the Rapid Intervention Group appears to have been involved in the detention and abuse of prominent women's rights activists arrested last year, the Times said.

The intervention team was so busy that in June its leader asked a top advisor to Prince Mohammad whether he would give them bonuses for Eid al-Fitr, a major holiday at the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

Saudi officials declined to confirm or deny that such a team existed, or answer questions from the Times about its work.

The Saudi embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to an AFP query for comment.

The Rapid Intervention Group was authorized by Prince Mohammad and overseen by Saud al-Qahtani, a royal court insider, American officials told the Times.

US intelligence reports did not specify how involved Prince Mohammad was with the group's work, but said that the operatives saw Qahtani as a "conduit" to the prince, the report said.

Qahtani has been sacked over Khashoggi's murder but Saudi authorities have not said if&nbsp;he was among those charged.

Five of the accused face the death penalty.

More than a year before the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, Saudi Arabia's powerful Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman approved a secret campaign to silence dissenters, The New York Times reported on Sunday.

More than a year before the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, Saudi Arabia's powerful Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman approved a secret campaign to silence dissenters, The New York Times reported on Sunday. The campaign included surveillance, kidnapping, detention and torture of Saudis, said the report which cited US officials who have read classified intelligence reports about the effort. American officials referred to it as the Saudi Rapid Intervention Group, the Times said. At least some of the clandestine missions were carried out by members of the team that killed and dismembered Khashoggi in October at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, suggesting his murder was part of a wider campaign against dissidents, the report said, citing the US officials and associates of some Saudi victims. The murder of Khashoggi, a Washington Post contributing columnist, generated global outrage including an order from US senators for President Donald Trump to designate and punish those responsible. He did not comply. The senators, briefed by the heads of US intelligence agencies, said they were convinced that Prince Mohammad was responsible for the Khashoggi killing. Saudi Arabia has stressed the prince was not involved. The kingdom initially said it had no knowledge of Khashoggi's fate but later blamed rogue agents for his death. Saudi Arabia's public prosecutor has charged 11 people over his murder. Among its activities, the Rapid Intervention Group appears to have been involved in the detention and abuse of prominent women's rights activists arrested last year, the Times said. The intervention team was so busy that in June its leader asked a top advisor to Prince Mohammad whether he would give them bonuses for Eid al-Fitr, a major holiday at the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Saudi officials declined to confirm or deny that such a team existed, or answer questions from the Times about its work. The Saudi embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to an AFP query for comment. The Rapid Intervention Group was authorized by Prince Mohammad and overseen by Saud al-Qahtani, a royal court insider, American officials told the Times. US intelligence reports did not specify how involved Prince Mohammad was with the group's work, but said that the operatives saw Qahtani as a "conduit" to the prince, the report said. Qahtani has been sacked over Khashoggi's murder but Saudi authorities have not said if he was among those charged. Five of the accused face the death penalty.

Saudi crown prince approved secret campaign to silence dissenters: New York Times

Saudi Arabia's minister of state for foreign affairs Adel Al Jubeir will be in India on Monday for a brief visit. The visit, which will be just 4 hours 25 minutes long - according to the schedule released by the Ministry of External Affairs - will see the minister meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

When asked about what will be the focus during the minister's visit, MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "My understanding is that he is visiting to discuss some important follow-ups from the recent visit of the Saudi Crown Prince to India."

On being asked if the minister is coming as a mediator in the backdrop of his Pakistan visit, Kumar said, "How did the question arise? In fact, I made it very clear and frankly there has been no offer of any mediation from any country. Not from the Saudis, not from any country that there can be any mediation and I think our position is very clear on that."

Last week, the minister was in Pakistan and met Pak Prime Minister Imran Khan and his foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi.

There have been a number of high-level engagements between India and Saudi Arabia in the last few weeks. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was in India for a state visit from February 19 to 20. External Affairs Minister met Saudi minister of state for foreign affairs in UAE on the sidelines of Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) foreign ministers' meeting earlier this month.&nbsp;

This will be the second meeting between Sushma Swaraj and Adel Al Jubeir in the last 10 days.

Saudi Arabia's minister of state for foreign affairs Adel Al Jubeir will be in India on Monday for a brief visit. The visit, which will be just 4 hours 25 minutes long - according to the schedule released by the Ministry of External Affairs - will see the minister meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

Saudi Arabia's minister of state for foreign affairs Adel Al Jubeir will be in India on Monday for a brief visit. The visit, which will be just 4 hours 25 minutes long - according to the schedule released by the Ministry of External Affairs - will see the minister meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. When asked about what will be the focus during the minister's visit, MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "My understanding is that he is visiting to discuss some important follow-ups from the recent visit of the Saudi Crown Prince to India." On being asked if the minister is coming as a mediator in the backdrop of his Pakistan visit, Kumar said, "How did the question arise? In fact, I made it very clear and frankly there has been no offer of any mediation from any country. Not from the Saudis, not from any country that there can be any mediation and I think our position is very clear on that." Last week, the minister was in Pakistan and met Pak Prime Minister Imran Khan and his foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi. There have been a number of high-level engagements between India and Saudi Arabia in the last few weeks. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was in India for a state visit from February 19 to 20. External Affairs Minister met Saudi minister of state for foreign affairs in UAE on the sidelines of Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) foreign ministers' meeting earlier this month. This will be the second meeting between Sushma Swaraj and Adel Al Jubeir in the last 10 days.

Saudi Arabia's MoS foreign affairs to visit India on Monday

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman visits China

China sees "enormous potential" in Saudi Arabia's economy and wants more high-tech cooperation, the Chinese government's top diplomat said, as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman began a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/president-xi-jinping-says-ties-with-iran-unchanged-as-saudi-crown-prince-arrives-in-china-198743">two-day trip to Beijing</a>.

The Saudi delegation, including top executives from Aramco, arrived on Thursday on an Asia tour that has already seen the kingdom pledge investment of $20 billion in Pakistan and seek additional investment in India's refining industry.

The crown prince will meet President Xi Jinping, who has made stepping up China's presence in the Middle East a key foreign policy objective, despite its traditional low-key role there.

Meeting Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir, State Councillor Wang Yi said the main features of their ties were respect, understanding and support for each other, China's Foreign Ministry said in a statement late on Thursday.

"All countries in the world have the right to develop, and Saudi Arabia is an emerging market country with enormous potential," the ministry paraphrased Wang as saying.

China supports Saudi's efforts to diversify its economy and is willing to strengthen high-tech cooperation, Wang added.

Saudi Aramco, the world's top oil exporter, will sign a pact to build a refinery and petrochemical project in northeastern Liaoning province in a joint venture with China's defence conglomerate Norinco, three sources with knowledge of the matter said.

The investments could help Saudi Arabia regain its place as the top oil exporter to China, a position Russia has held for the last three years. Saudi Aramco is set to boost market share by signing supply deals with non-state Chinese refiners.

China has had to step carefully in relations with Riyadh, since Beijing also has close ties with Saudi regional foe Iran.

On Wednesday, Xi told the speaker of Iran's parliament that China's desire to develop close ties with Iran would stay unaltered, regardless of the global situation.

China is also wary of criticism from Muslim countries about its camps in the heavily-Muslim far western region of Xinjiang, which the government says are for de-radicalisation purposes and rights groups call internment camps.

Wang said both countries face the threats of terrorism and extremism, and should strengthen cooperation to safeguard security and stability.

China was not seeking to play politics in the Middle East, the widely-read state-run tabloid, the Global Times, said in an editorial on Friday.

"China won't be a geopolitical player in the Middle East. It has no enemies and can cooperate with all countries in the region," said the paper, published by the ruling Communist Party's official People's Daily.

"China's increasing influence in the Middle East comes from pure friendly cooperation. Such a partnership will be welcomed by more countries in the Middle East."

China sees "enormous potential" in Saudi Arabia's economy and wants more high-tech cooperation, the Chinese government's top diplomat said, as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman began a two-day trip to Beijing.

China sees "enormous potential" in Saudi Arabia's economy and wants more high-tech cooperation, the Chinese government's top diplomat said, as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman began a two-day trip to Beijing. The Saudi delegation, including top executives from Aramco, arrived on Thursday on an Asia tour that has already seen the kingdom pledge investment of $20 billion in Pakistan and seek additional investment in India's refining industry. The crown prince will meet President Xi Jinping, who has made stepping up China's presence in the Middle East a key foreign policy objective, despite its traditional low-key role there. Meeting Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir, State Councillor Wang Yi said the main features of their ties were respect, understanding and support for each other, China's Foreign Ministry said in a statement late on Thursday. "All countries in the world have the right to develop, and Saudi Arabia is an emerging market country with enormous potential," the ministry paraphrased Wang as saying. China supports Saudi's efforts to diversify its economy and is willing to strengthen high-tech cooperation, Wang added. Saudi Aramco, the world's top oil exporter, will sign a pact to build a refinery and petrochemical project in northeastern Liaoning province in a joint venture with China's defence conglomerate Norinco, three sources with knowledge of the matter said. The investments could help Saudi Arabia regain its place as the top oil exporter to China, a position Russia has held for the last three years. Saudi Aramco is set to boost market share by signing supply deals with non-state Chinese refiners. China has had to step carefully in relations with Riyadh, since Beijing also has close ties with Saudi regional foe Iran. On Wednesday, Xi told the speaker of Iran's parliament that China's desire to develop close ties with Iran would stay unaltered, regardless of the global situation. China is also wary of criticism from Muslim countries about its camps in the heavily-Muslim far western region of Xinjiang, which the government says are for de-radicalisation purposes and rights groups call internment camps. Wang said both countries face the threats of terrorism and extremism, and should strengthen cooperation to safeguard security and stability. China was not seeking to play politics in the Middle East, the widely-read state-run tabloid, the Global Times, said in an editorial on Friday. "China won't be a geopolitical player in the Middle East. It has no enemies and can cooperate with all countries in the region," said the paper, published by the ruling Communist Party's official People's Daily. "China's increasing influence in the Middle East comes from pure friendly cooperation. Such a partnership will be welcomed by more countries in the Middle East."

China sees 'enormous potential' in Saudi economy as crown prince visits

Chinese Vice Premier Han Zheng held bilateral talks with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Beijing on Friday.

Mohammed also presided over a China-Saudi cooperation forum and the two leaders signed and witnessed a series of bilateral cooperation documents.

The Saudi delegation, including top executives from Aramco, arrived on Thursday (February 21) after visiting Pakistan and India on an Asia tour. Sources said Aramco plans to sign preliminary deals to invest in two oil refining and petrochemical complexes in China this week.

Later on Friday, the crown prince will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping, who has made stepping up China's presence in the Middle East a key foreign policy objective.

China's Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Thursday that Beijing sees "enormous potential" in Saudi Arabia's economy and wants more high-tech cooperation.

Chinese Vice Premier Han Zheng held bilateral talks with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Beijing on Friday. Mohammed also presided over a China-Saudi cooperation forum and the two leaders signed and witnessed a series of bilateral cooperation documents.

Chinese Vice Premier Han Zheng held bilateral talks with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Beijing on Friday. Mohammed also presided over a China-Saudi cooperation forum and the two leaders signed and witnessed a series of bilateral cooperation documents. The Saudi delegation, including top executives from Aramco, arrived on Thursday (February 21) after visiting Pakistan and India on an Asia tour. Sources said Aramco plans to sign preliminary deals to invest in two oil refining and petrochemical complexes in China this week. Later on Friday, the crown prince will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping, who has made stepping up China's presence in the Middle East a key foreign policy objective. China's Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Thursday that Beijing sees "enormous potential" in Saudi Arabia's economy and wants more high-tech cooperation.

Saudi crown prince meets Chinese vice premier in Beijing

Saudi Arabia will release 850 Indians from its prisons after a request from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to New Delhi, India's Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday.

Saudi jails hold the greatest number of Indians incarcerated in any country abroad. As of January 2019, 2,224 Indians were jailed in the kingdom for crimes including murder, kidnapping, bribery, cheating, and offences related to drugs and alcohol, according to Indian Foreign Ministry figures.

Some 2.7 million Indians in Saudi Arabia form the largest expatriate community in the kingdom, with many working in low-paid jobs in sectors such as construction, domestic services and retailing that Saudis spurn.

"At the request of the PM @narendramodi, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia has ordered the release of 850 Indian prisoners lodged in Saudi jails," India`s Foreign Ministry spokesperson said in a tweet.&nbsp;

On Monday, Saudi Arabia ordered the release of about 2,100 Pakistani prisoners from its jails, according to Pakistan's information minister. Prince Mohammed, Saudi Arabia`s de facto ruler, paid a visit to India`s arch regional rival earlier this week, before heading home and then flying to New Delhi.

On Sunday, Saudi Arabia signed investment agreements with Pakistan worth $20 billion. In New Delhi on Wednesday, Prince Mohammed said he expected investment opportunities worth more than $100 billion in India over the next two years.

The Crown Prince`s Asian tour, which will include China, is regarded as part of an effort to help rebuild his reputation abroad after the killing last October of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a critic of the Saudi leadership.

Saudi officials have denied accusations that Prince Mohammed ordered Khashoggi`s murder in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, and have detained 11 suspects in connection with the killing.

Saudi Arabia will release 850 Indians from its prisons after a request from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to New Delhi, India's Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday.

Saudi Arabia will release 850 Indians from its prisons after a request from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to New Delhi, India's Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday. Saudi jails hold the greatest number of Indians incarcerated in any country abroad. As of January 2019, 2,224 Indians were jailed in the kingdom for crimes including murder, kidnapping, bribery, cheating, and offences related to drugs and alcohol, according to Indian Foreign Ministry figures. Some 2.7 million Indians in Saudi Arabia form the largest expatriate community in the kingdom, with many working in low-paid jobs in sectors such as construction, domestic services and retailing that Saudis spurn. "At the request of the PM @narendramodi, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia has ordered the release of 850 Indian prisoners lodged in Saudi jails," India`s Foreign Ministry spokesperson said in a tweet. On Monday, Saudi Arabia ordered the release of about 2,100 Pakistani prisoners from its jails, according to Pakistan's information minister. Prince Mohammed, Saudi Arabia`s de facto ruler, paid a visit to India`s arch regional rival earlier this week, before heading home and then flying to New Delhi. On Sunday, Saudi Arabia signed investment agreements with Pakistan worth $20 billion. In New Delhi on Wednesday, Prince Mohammed said he expected investment opportunities worth more than $100 billion in India over the next two years. The Crown Prince`s Asian tour, which will include China, is regarded as part of an effort to help rebuild his reputation abroad after the killing last October of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a critic of the Saudi leadership. Saudi officials have denied accusations that Prince Mohammed ordered Khashoggi`s murder in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, and have detained 11 suspects in connection with the killing.

Saudi to free 850 Indian prisoners from its jails: Government

Saudi Crown Prince lauds PM's initiative as he announces 100 billion dollar investment

Dispatch: Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman arrives in China

China remains determined to maintain strategic ties with Iran regardless of regional tensions in the Middle East, its president has said, ahead of Saudi Arabia crown prince's two-day China trip that began Thursday.

In a statement, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Thursday said that President Xi Jinping met the speaker of Iran's parliament, Ali Larijani, and told him that his desire to develop close ties with the Islamic republic remained unchanged.

"Regardless of how the international and regional situation develops China's determination to develop a deep strategic link with Iran will remain unchanged," Xi told Larijani, according to the statement.

Xi met with Larijani at the Great Hall of the People on Wednesday and pledged to play a constructive role in maintaining regional peace and stability, the statement said.

The Chinese president said that Beijing was willing to maintain close communication and coordination with Iran on regional issues.

Larijani highlighted Iran's intention to strengthen mutual trust, promote pragmatic cooperation and mutual support on international and regional issues, according to the statement.

China is part of the group of countries - along with Russia, France, the United Kingdom and Germany - that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-maintain-trade-with-iran-despite-us-nuclear-deal-pullout-146109">continue to support the 2015 nuclear agreement</a> with Iran after the United States withdrew the deal last year.

The statement came hours before Xi meets with the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohamed bin Salman, in Beijing.

The prince, who arrived in China after his <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/crown-prince-visit-pakistan-needs-saudi-arabias-crutches-to-survive-but-india-doesnt-198700">India and Pakistan trip as part</a> of Saudi Arabia's look east efforts, will also meet with first Vice Premier Han Zheng. The two will chair the third meeting of the joint high-level bilateral committee between the two countries.

Bin Salman's visit comes amid growing tensions between Riyadh and Tehran.

The two regional rivals, vying for supremacy in the Middle East since 1979, have not maintained diplomatic relations after January 2016. This has partly prevented Beijing from sustaining a balanced equation between the two powers in the oil-rich region.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said in a press conference last week that China would continue strengthening bilateral cooperation with Saudi Arabia.

Geng said China and Saudi Arabia maintain deep political confidence and cooperation in fields such as energy and infrastructure as well as the Belt and Road Initiative, the multi-billion dollar infrastructure initiative also known as New Silk Road.

In recent years, the Chinese president has led a policy of increasing its global influence in strategic regions, such as Africa, Latin America and the Middle East, where it seeks to strengthen its presence.

China remains determined to maintain strategic ties with Iran regardless of regional tensions in the Middle East, its president has said, ahead of Saudi Arabia crown prince's two-day China trip that began Thursday.

China remains determined to maintain strategic ties with Iran regardless of regional tensions in the Middle East, its president has said, ahead of Saudi Arabia crown prince's two-day China trip that began Thursday. In a statement, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Thursday said that President Xi Jinping met the speaker of Iran's parliament, Ali Larijani, and told him that his desire to develop close ties with the Islamic republic remained unchanged. "Regardless of how the international and regional situation develops China's determination to develop a deep strategic link with Iran will remain unchanged," Xi told Larijani, according to the statement. Xi met with Larijani at the Great Hall of the People on Wednesday and pledged to play a constructive role in maintaining regional peace and stability, the statement said. The Chinese president said that Beijing was willing to maintain close communication and coordination with Iran on regional issues. Larijani highlighted Iran's intention to strengthen mutual trust, promote pragmatic cooperation and mutual support on international and regional issues, according to the statement. China is part of the group of countries - along with Russia, France, the United Kingdom and Germany - that continue to support the 2015 nuclear agreement with Iran after the United States withdrew the deal last year. The statement came hours before Xi meets with the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohamed bin Salman, in Beijing. The prince, who arrived in China after his India and Pakistan trip as part of Saudi Arabia's look east efforts, will also meet with first Vice Premier Han Zheng. The two will chair the third meeting of the joint high-level bilateral committee between the two countries. Bin Salman's visit comes amid growing tensions between Riyadh and Tehran. The two regional rivals, vying for supremacy in the Middle East since 1979, have not maintained diplomatic relations after January 2016. This has partly prevented Beijing from sustaining a balanced equation between the two powers in the oil-rich region. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said in a press conference last week that China would continue strengthening bilateral cooperation with Saudi Arabia. Geng said China and Saudi Arabia maintain deep political confidence and cooperation in fields such as energy and infrastructure as well as the Belt and Road Initiative, the multi-billion dollar infrastructure initiative also known as New Silk Road. In recent years, the Chinese president has led a policy of increasing its global influence in strategic regions, such as Africa, Latin America and the Middle East, where it seeks to strengthen its presence.

President Xi Jinping says ties with Iran unchanged as Saudi crown prince arrives in China

Saudi Crown Prince Arrives In India

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/saudi-arabias-crown-prince-mohammed-bin-salman-arrives-in-india-on-a-two-day-visit-198375">Mohammed bin Salman arrived in New Delhi</a> on Tuesday, with his business mission under threat of being overshadowed by soaring tensions between India and Pakistan.

The crown prince, who wants to persuade the world's fastest-growing major economy to consume more Saudi oil, was greeted at the airport by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who gave his traditional bear hug for honoured guests.&nbsp;

The prince arrived from a two-day stay in Pakistan as it clashed with its giant neighbour over responsibility for a suicide attack in Kashmir last Thursday that left at least 40 members of Indian security forces dead.

The attack was claimed by Pakistan-based Islamist group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and has sparked calls in India for a firm response.

The latest showdown between the nuclear-armed neighbours, which is causing mounting international concern, is expected to figure prominently in Prince Mohammed's talks with Modi on Wednesday.

"Our objective is to try to de-escalate tensions between the two countries, neighbouring countries, and to see if there is a path forward to resolving those differences peacefully," Saudi minister of state Adel al-Jubeir said in Islamabad on Monday.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan offered Tuesday to investigate the attack if India provided proof of its involvement -- but said his country would retaliate if attacked.

India rebuffed Khan's comments and called in turn for "credible and visible action" to rein in militants.

Washington threw its weight behind India Tuesday, pressing Pakistan to punish those behind the Kashmir attack.&nbsp;

"We have been in close communication with the government of India to express not only our condolences but our strong support for India as it confronts this terrorism," deputy US State Department spokesman Robert Palladino told reporters.

"We urge Pakistan to fully cooperate with the investigation into the attack and to punish anyone responsible."

Before the attack, the agenda for the crown prince's visit had been dominated by oil and other key investment decisions.

Saudi oil rivalry with Iran&nbsp; 
Saudi Arabia currently supplies about 20 per cent of India's crude oil and wants to definitively push aside arch-rival Iran as a source.

Iran at one stage last year overtook Saudi Arabia among India's suppliers but US sanctions since have severely hit the Islamic Republic's oil business. &nbsp;

Modi has also wooed Saudi investment in recent years for flagship infrastructure programmes. &nbsp;

"I think even in the backdrop of this attack, the economic ties -- which are beneficial to both the countries -- will remain the focus of the meetings," Kabir Taneja, an associate fellow with Observer Research Foundation, a New Delhi-based think tank, told AFP.

"India and Saudi Arabia know what they want from each other: India will be looking for leverage on oil pricing while Saudi Arabia, which is trying to diversify its economy, is looking at access to rising India's market," he added.

Taneja said India would aim to use these closer economic ties to push for Saudi Arabia's "unconditional support" regarding Pakistan.

The crown prince is on a three-country Asian tour as the kingdom seeks to recover its reputation after last year's murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.&nbsp;

Prince Mohammed was treated to a colourful welcome, including Punjabi drumming, at the airport with Modi before the two leaders sped off in a convoy.&nbsp;

The crown prince and the prime minister will lead bilateral talks Wednesday before they are due to issue a statement and announce agreements.&nbsp;

Prince Mohammed is to leave India late Wednesday and is expected to spend two days in China.

Analysts have said the tour is part of a pivot to rising Asia as a growing oil market and a retort to the West where the crown prince has faced harsh criticism over the Khashoggi affair.

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman arrived in New Delhi on Tuesday, with his business mission under threat of being overshadowed by soaring tensions between India and Pakistan.

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman arrived in New Delhi on Tuesday, with his business mission under threat of being overshadowed by soaring tensions between India and Pakistan. The crown prince, who wants to persuade the world's fastest-growing major economy to consume more Saudi oil, was greeted at the airport by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who gave his traditional bear hug for honoured guests. The prince arrived from a two-day stay in Pakistan as it clashed with its giant neighbour over responsibility for a suicide attack in Kashmir last Thursday that left at least 40 members of Indian security forces dead. The attack was claimed by Pakistan-based Islamist group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and has sparked calls in India for a firm response. The latest showdown between the nuclear-armed neighbours, which is causing mounting international concern, is expected to figure prominently in Prince Mohammed's talks with Modi on Wednesday. "Our objective is to try to de-escalate tensions between the two countries, neighbouring countries, and to see if there is a path forward to resolving those differences peacefully," Saudi minister of state Adel al-Jubeir said in Islamabad on Monday. Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan offered Tuesday to investigate the attack if India provided proof of its involvement -- but said his country would retaliate if attacked. India rebuffed Khan's comments and called in turn for "credible and visible action" to rein in militants. Washington threw its weight behind India Tuesday, pressing Pakistan to punish those behind the Kashmir attack. "We have been in close communication with the government of India to express not only our condolences but our strong support for India as it confronts this terrorism," deputy US State Department spokesman Robert Palladino told reporters. "We urge Pakistan to fully cooperate with the investigation into the attack and to punish anyone responsible." Before the attack, the agenda for the crown prince's visit had been dominated by oil and other key investment decisions. Saudi oil rivalry with Iran Saudi Arabia currently supplies about 20 per cent of India's crude oil and wants to definitively push aside arch-rival Iran as a source. Iran at one stage last year overtook Saudi Arabia among India's suppliers but US sanctions since have severely hit the Islamic Republic's oil business. Modi has also wooed Saudi investment in recent years for flagship infrastructure programmes. "I think even in the backdrop of this attack, the economic ties -- which are beneficial to both the countries -- will remain the focus of the meetings," Kabir Taneja, an associate fellow with Observer Research Foundation, a New Delhi-based think tank, told AFP. "India and Saudi Arabia know what they want from each other: India will be looking for leverage on oil pricing while Saudi Arabia, which is trying to diversify its economy, is looking at access to rising India's market," he added. Taneja said India would aim to use these closer economic ties to push for Saudi Arabia's "unconditional support" regarding Pakistan. The crown prince is on a three-country Asian tour as the kingdom seeks to recover its reputation after last year's murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Prince Mohammed was treated to a colourful welcome, including Punjabi drumming, at the airport with Modi before the two leaders sped off in a convoy. The crown prince and the prime minister will lead bilateral talks Wednesday before they are due to issue a statement and announce agreements. Prince Mohammed is to leave India late Wednesday and is expected to spend two days in China. Analysts have said the tour is part of a pivot to rising Asia as a growing oil market and a retort to the West where the crown prince has faced harsh criticism over the Khashoggi affair.

India-Pakistan tensions threaten to derail Saudi crown prince's Delhi trip

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday discussed terror and trade ties with Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman who is on a two-day India visit.

Addressing a joint press conference, PM Modi called for countries who support terror to be put under pressure.

Recalling the last week's Pulwama terror attack, PM said, "attack shows the inhumane face of this scourge and threat to the world. To act effectively against terror, both agreed, pressure needs to be put on countries who support terror. &nbsp;Need to destroy the infrastructure of terror, those who support terror. Need a common action plan against extremism."

This is the second meeting between the Indian PM and the Saudi prince in the last three months. They last met on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina on November 30.

Speaking about the common concerns on terror and extremism, the Saudi prince said, "We would like every kind of cooperation with India, especially on intelligence sharing. Not only India, but we will also work with countries in the region to act against the scourge to have a better future."

Both countries signed five MoUs on India's National Investment and Infrastructure, tourism, housing, Framework Cooperation Program between Invest India and Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority and public broadcaster of both the countries.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia has also joined the International solar alliance, becoming the 73rd country to do so. India's E visa programme for Saudi Citizens is also being expanded.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, he was given a ceremonial reception at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhawan. He also lauded role by played by Indians in building the kingdom.

"Since we remember ourselves, Indian people are friends and part of building Saudi Arabia in the past 70 years. A lot of Saudis work and develop a lot of things in India for hundreds of years," Modi said.

PM Modi also lauded the positive role played by the Indian community in the country. The country hosts 2.7 million strong Indian community, one of the largest in west Asia, sending remittance of over US$ 11 billion annually.&nbsp;

Last year, Saudi Arabia increased the Indian Haj quota by 5,000, enabling 1,75,025 Indians to undertake the pilgrimage last year.

Both Riyadh and New Delhi have agreed on a two yearly summit-level meet and establishment of strategic partnership council at ministerial level between both the countries.

Crown prince arrived in India on Tuesday and was received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

MBS arrived in India a day after his two-day visit to Pakistan. It is interesting to note that the Saudi prince went back to Riyadh after his Pakistan visit, and came back again to New Delhi, a development which many will see de-hyphenation by Saudi Arabia between Pakistan and India and something which New Delhi will prefer in the aftermath of Pulwama terror attack.&nbsp;

India is one of the eight strategic partners of Saudi Arabia with which the West Asian country intends to deepen partnership in areas of political, security, trade and investment and culture. Bilateral trade between both the countries stood at US$ 27.48billion in the financial year 2017-18. Saudi Arabia is India's fourth largest trading partner with New Delhi getting 17 per cent of its oil imports from the country.&nbsp;

Modi had visited Riyadh in April 2016. Saudi Arabia's King Salman had honoured him then with the "Sash of King Abdulaziz", the highest civilian decoration awarded by the West Asian country.&nbsp;

Salman is Saudi Arabia's second-most important person after the king and his designated successor.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday discussed terror and trade ties with Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman who is on a two-day India visit.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday discussed terror and trade ties with Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman who is on a two-day India visit. Addressing a joint press conference, PM Modi called for countries who support terror to be put under pressure. Recalling the last week's Pulwama terror attack, PM said, "attack shows the inhumane face of this scourge and threat to the world. To act effectively against terror, both agreed, pressure needs to be put on countries who support terror. Need to destroy the infrastructure of terror, those who support terror. Need a common action plan against extremism." This is the second meeting between the Indian PM and the Saudi prince in the last three months. They last met on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina on November 30. Speaking about the common concerns on terror and extremism, the Saudi prince said, "We would like every kind of cooperation with India, especially on intelligence sharing. Not only India, but we will also work with countries in the region to act against the scourge to have a better future." Both countries signed five MoUs on India's National Investment and Infrastructure, tourism, housing, Framework Cooperation Program between Invest India and Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority and public broadcaster of both the countries. Saudi Arabia has also joined the International solar alliance, becoming the 73rd country to do so. India's E visa programme for Saudi Citizens is also being expanded. Earlier in the day, he was given a ceremonial reception at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhawan. He also lauded role by played by Indians in building the kingdom. "Since we remember ourselves, Indian people are friends and part of building Saudi Arabia in the past 70 years. A lot of Saudis work and develop a lot of things in India for hundreds of years," Modi said. PM Modi also lauded the positive role played by the Indian community in the country. The country hosts 2.7 million strong Indian community, one of the largest in west Asia, sending remittance of over US$ 11 billion annually. Last year, Saudi Arabia increased the Indian Haj quota by 5,000, enabling 1,75,025 Indians to undertake the pilgrimage last year. Both Riyadh and New Delhi have agreed on a two yearly summit-level meet and establishment of strategic partnership council at ministerial level between both the countries. Crown prince arrived in India on Tuesday and was received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. MBS arrived in India a day after his two-day visit to Pakistan. It is interesting to note that the Saudi prince went back to Riyadh after his Pakistan visit, and came back again to New Delhi, a development which many will see de-hyphenation by Saudi Arabia between Pakistan and India and something which New Delhi will prefer in the aftermath of Pulwama terror attack. India is one of the eight strategic partners of Saudi Arabia with which the West Asian country intends to deepen partnership in areas of political, security, trade and investment and culture. Bilateral trade between both the countries stood at US$ 27.48billion in the financial year 2017-18. Saudi Arabia is India's fourth largest trading partner with New Delhi getting 17 per cent of its oil imports from the country. Modi had visited Riyadh in April 2016. Saudi Arabia's King Salman had honoured him then with the "Sash of King Abdulaziz", the highest civilian decoration awarded by the West Asian country. Salman is Saudi Arabia's second-most important person after the king and his designated successor.

Terror, trade ties in focus in talks between PM Modi and Saudi Crown Prince Salman 

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman will land in New Delhi Tuesday, and India is expected to raise the spectre of Pakistan-sponsored terror with him.&nbsp;

Salman has just visited Pakistan. He returned to Riyadh on Monday night however since India, the news agency PTI quoted government sources as saying, had reservations about him travelling to the country from Pakistan.&nbsp;

The Saudi Arabian crown prince — the second-most important person in the country after the king — announced investments of $20 billion in Pakistan but India, in the wake of the Pulwama attack, is hoping Saudi Arabia will curtail funding to Pakistan should it not rein in the terror groups on its soil. (India may be drawing a distinction between investments and bailouts, like the $6 billion loan Saudi Arabia gave Pakistan in 2018. It is also expected that India will make little or no mention of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/leading-us-senator-blames-saudi-prince-salman-for-khashoggi-death-172688">the killing of Saudi journalist and Washington Post contributor Jamal Khashoggi</a>.)&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/awantipora-crpf-convoy-hit-by-explosives-laden-vehicle-several-jawans-killed-197418">Over 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives in the Pulwama attack</a> which was claimed by the Jaish-e-Mohammed. The Jaish is headed by Masood Azhar who is a Pakistani national.&nbsp;

Ahead of the crown prince's visit, Saudi Arabia's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel al-Jubeir said in Islamabad on Monday that Riyadh will try to "de-escalate" tensions between India and Pakistan.

Official sources said Saudi Arabia was no longer accepting Pakistan's narrative on Kashmir and cross-border terrorism and that India will forcefully raise the issue of Pakistan's support to terror groups during delegation-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the crown prince on Wednesday.

They said the joint statement to be issued after talks between the two sides is likely to have strong reference about terrorism and ways to deal with it.

Secretary, Economic Affairs in the External Affairs Ministry TS Tirumurti said both sides are expected to sign five agreements in areas of investment, tourism, housing and information and broadcasting during the Saudi leader's visit.

"We are confident that this visit will open a new chapter in India-Saudi bilateral relationship," he said.

Referring to cross-border terrorism, he said, "Saudi Arabia has strongly condemned and denounced the terrorist attack on Indian security forces in Pulwama on 14 February. We appreciate kingdom's cooperation in security and counter terrorism areas over the years."&nbsp;

Official sources said there has been a "change" in the way Saudi Arabia looked at relations between India and Pakistan and that the powerful Gulf nation has a better understanding of the cross-border terrorism.&nbsp;

"India has been identified as one of the eight strategic partners with whom Saudi Arabia intends to deepen partnership in areas of political, security, trade and investment and culture," said Tirumurti.&nbsp;

"As part of this engagement, we are finalising the setting up of 'Strategic Partnership Council' between the two countries at ministerial level. We are confident that this will give greater thrust to our strategic partnership and take forward our discussions in a focussed and action-oriented manner," he said.

The sources said the two sides are looking at a joint exercise between their navies, besides significantly ramping up overall defence cooperation.

They said Saudi Arabia has been providing India information and intelligence about various terror networks. The two countries had inked a pact on the&nbsp;exchange of intelligence related to money laundering and terrorism during Modi's visit to Riyadh in 2016.

The crown prince will be accompanied by a high-level official team as well as a large business delegation.

Modi will host a lunch in honour of the crown prince at Hyderabad House on Wednesday.

The crown prince will call on President Ram Nath Kovind and he will host a banquet in honour of the visiting dignitary&nbsp;

During PM Modi's visit to Saudi Arabia in 2016, an MoU on cooperation in exchange of intelligence related to money laundering and terrorism financing was signed.

India's bilateral trade with Saudi Arabia was USD 27.48 billion in 2017-18, making the West Asian country its fourth-largest trading partner.

Saudi Arabia is also a key pillar of India's energy security, being the source of 17 per cent or more of India's crude oil and 32 per cent of its LPG requirements.&nbsp;

Recently, Saudi ARAMCO in partnership with ADNOC of UAE agreed to partner in the Ratnagiri Refinery and Petro-Chemical project Ltd which is a joint venture worth $44 billion. The Indian partners are IOC, BPCL and HPCL.&nbsp;

"We hope to transform this buyer-seller relationship in energy to a broad-based partnership," Tirumurti said.

He said other areas of interest for joint collaboration were fertilisers, food security, infrastructure, renewable energy, etc.&nbsp;

"We are also looking forward to greater collaboration in the area of civil aviation, where there is considerable potential for enhanced links, especially in the context of increasing trade, tourism and in enhancing convenience of travel," Trimurti said.

He also added that Saudi Arabia has conveyed to India that it will be joining International Solar Alliance&nbsp;initiative.

The crown prince is expected to travel to China from India.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman will land in New Delhi Tuesday, and India is expected to raise the spectre of Pakistan-sponsored terror with him. Salman has just visited Pakistan.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman will land in New Delhi Tuesday, and India is expected to raise the spectre of Pakistan-sponsored terror with him. Salman has just visited Pakistan. He returned to Riyadh on Monday night however since India, the news agency PTI quoted government sources as saying, had reservations about him travelling to the country from Pakistan. The Saudi Arabian crown prince — the second-most important person in the country after the king — announced investments of $20 billion in Pakistan but India, in the wake of the Pulwama attack, is hoping Saudi Arabia will curtail funding to Pakistan should it not rein in the terror groups on its soil. (India may be drawing a distinction between investments and bailouts, like the $6 billion loan Saudi Arabia gave Pakistan in 2018. It is also expected that India will make little or no mention of the killing of Saudi journalist and Washington Post contributor Jamal Khashoggi.) Over 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives in the Pulwama attack which was claimed by the Jaish-e-Mohammed. The Jaish is headed by Masood Azhar who is a Pakistani national. Ahead of the crown prince's visit, Saudi Arabia's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel al-Jubeir said in Islamabad on Monday that Riyadh will try to "de-escalate" tensions between India and Pakistan. Official sources said Saudi Arabia was no longer accepting Pakistan's narrative on Kashmir and cross-border terrorism and that India will forcefully raise the issue of Pakistan's support to terror groups during delegation-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the crown prince on Wednesday. They said the joint statement to be issued after talks between the two sides is likely to have strong reference about terrorism and ways to deal with it. Secretary, Economic Affairs in the External Affairs Ministry TS Tirumurti said both sides are expected to sign five agreements in areas of investment, tourism, housing and information and broadcasting during the Saudi leader's visit. "We are confident that this visit will open a new chapter in India-Saudi bilateral relationship," he said. Referring to cross-border terrorism, he said, "Saudi Arabia has strongly condemned and denounced the terrorist attack on Indian security forces in Pulwama on 14 February. We appreciate kingdom's cooperation in security and counter terrorism areas over the years." Official sources said there has been a "change" in the way Saudi Arabia looked at relations between India and Pakistan and that the powerful Gulf nation has a better understanding of the cross-border terrorism. "India has been identified as one of the eight strategic partners with whom Saudi Arabia intends to deepen partnership in areas of political, security, trade and investment and culture," said Tirumurti. "As part of this engagement, we are finalising the setting up of 'Strategic Partnership Council' between the two countries at ministerial level. We are confident that this will give greater thrust to our strategic partnership and take forward our discussions in a focussed and action-oriented manner," he said. The sources said the two sides are looking at a joint exercise between their navies, besides significantly ramping up overall defence cooperation. They said Saudi Arabia has been providing India information and intelligence about various terror networks. The two countries had inked a pact on the exchange of intelligence related to money laundering and terrorism during Modi's visit to Riyadh in 2016. The crown prince will be accompanied by a high-level official team as well as a large business delegation. Modi will host a lunch in honour of the crown prince at Hyderabad House on Wednesday. The crown prince will call on President Ram Nath Kovind and he will host a banquet in honour of the visiting dignitary During PM Modi's visit to Saudi Arabia in 2016, an MoU on cooperation in exchange of intelligence related to money laundering and terrorism financing was signed. India's bilateral trade with Saudi Arabia was USD 27.48 billion in 2017-18, making the West Asian country its fourth-largest trading partner. Saudi Arabia is also a key pillar of India's energy security, being the source of 17 per cent or more of India's crude oil and 32 per cent of its LPG requirements. Recently, Saudi ARAMCO in partnership with ADNOC of UAE agreed to partner in the Ratnagiri Refinery and Petro-Chemical project Ltd which is a joint venture worth $44 billion. The Indian partners are IOC, BPCL and HPCL. "We hope to transform this buyer-seller relationship in energy to a broad-based partnership," Tirumurti said. He said other areas of interest for joint collaboration were fertilisers, food security, infrastructure, renewable energy, etc. "We are also looking forward to greater collaboration in the area of civil aviation, where there is considerable potential for enhanced links, especially in the context of increasing trade, tourism and in enhancing convenience of travel," Trimurti said. He also added that Saudi Arabia has conveyed to India that it will be joining International Solar Alliance initiative. The crown prince is expected to travel to China from India. (With inputs from PTI)

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman lands in Delhi today, India to take up Pakistan-sponsored terror with him

Saudi Crown Prince to arrives in New Delhi

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-honors-saudi-crown-prince-with-highest-civilian-award-198136">Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad-bin Salman</a> will arrive in New Delhi on Tuesday on his maiden visit to the country.

India is likely to raise the issue of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism and the two countries are expected to sign ties to enhance cooperation in various fields during the "landmark event in high-level bilateral ties".

"Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman visit to India will be a landmark event in the history of our high-level bilateral engagements and they will certainly take an upward strategic direction,” Arab News quoted Indian ambassador in Riyadh Ahmad Javed as saying.

MBS, as the Saudi Crown Prince is also known, will hold bilateral talks during his two-day visit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on a wide range of issues of mutual interest including counter-terrorism, defence and security.&nbsp;

India and Saudi Arabia are also expected to sign five MoUs in fields ranging from defence, healthcare etc.

According to the External Affairs Ministry, the talks on investment of US $44 billion by Saudi Aramco and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) in Ratnagiri Refinery project are also likely to take place.

The Saudi crown prince will be accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Vice President of the Council of Ministers and Minister of Defence of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, senior officials and leading Saudi businessmen.

The visit by MBS could be considered as important after the Pulwama terror attack, in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed by Pakistan-backed JeM terrorist group, as India adopted coercive diplomacy against Pakistan.

In addition, there is a big transformation in Saudi understanding of terrorism and Jammu and Kashmir in the last few years. Saudi made a very strong denouncement of Pulwama terror attack and did not accept Pakistan`s narrative.

India and Saudi Arabia are also expected to hold joint Naval exercises in the near future in efforts to deepen the defence ties.

Recently, Saudi Arabia has ranked India as the 8th strategic partner. Bilateral trade between the countries stood at US$ 27.48 billion during the last financial year 2017-18.

During the forthcoming visit, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia will call on President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice President Venkaiah Naidu. The visit follows the highly successful visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Saudi Arabia in April 2016.

India and Saudi Arabia have historically enjoyed close and friendly relations anchored in mutually beneficial partnership and extensive people to people contacts. In recent years, there has been significant progress in bilateral cooperation in key areas of mutual interest, including energy security, trade and investment, infrastructure, defence and security.

About 2.7 million strong and vibrant Indian community forms the largest expatriate group in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia also facilitates Hajj pilgrimage to over 1,75,000 Indians every year.

The Saudi Crown Prince has embarked on a four-country Asian tour that besides India, also includes Pakistan, Malaysia, Indonesia. He recently concluded his Pakistan visit.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad-bin Salman will arrive in New Delhi on Tuesday on his maiden visit to the country. India is likely to raise the issue of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism and the two countries are expected to sign ties to enhance cooperation in various fields during the "landmark event in high-level bilateral ties".

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad-bin Salman will arrive in New Delhi on Tuesday on his maiden visit to the country. India is likely to raise the issue of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism and the two countries are expected to sign ties to enhance cooperation in various fields during the "landmark event in high-level bilateral ties". "Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman visit to India will be a landmark event in the history of our high-level bilateral engagements and they will certainly take an upward strategic direction,” Arab News quoted Indian ambassador in Riyadh Ahmad Javed as saying. MBS, as the Saudi Crown Prince is also known, will hold bilateral talks during his two-day visit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on a wide range of issues of mutual interest including counter-terrorism, defence and security. India and Saudi Arabia are also expected to sign five MoUs in fields ranging from defence, healthcare etc. According to the External Affairs Ministry, the talks on investment of US $44 billion by Saudi Aramco and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) in Ratnagiri Refinery project are also likely to take place. The Saudi crown prince will be accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Vice President of the Council of Ministers and Minister of Defence of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, senior officials and leading Saudi businessmen. The visit by MBS could be considered as important after the Pulwama terror attack, in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed by Pakistan-backed JeM terrorist group, as India adopted coercive diplomacy against Pakistan. In addition, there is a big transformation in Saudi understanding of terrorism and Jammu and Kashmir in the last few years. Saudi made a very strong denouncement of Pulwama terror attack and did not accept Pakistan`s narrative. India and Saudi Arabia are also expected to hold joint Naval exercises in the near future in efforts to deepen the defence ties. Recently, Saudi Arabia has ranked India as the 8th strategic partner. Bilateral trade between the countries stood at US$ 27.48 billion during the last financial year 2017-18. During the forthcoming visit, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia will call on President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice President Venkaiah Naidu. The visit follows the highly successful visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Saudi Arabia in April 2016. India and Saudi Arabia have historically enjoyed close and friendly relations anchored in mutually beneficial partnership and extensive people to people contacts. In recent years, there has been significant progress in bilateral cooperation in key areas of mutual interest, including energy security, trade and investment, infrastructure, defence and security. About 2.7 million strong and vibrant Indian community forms the largest expatriate group in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia also facilitates Hajj pilgrimage to over 1,75,000 Indians every year. The Saudi Crown Prince has embarked on a four-country Asian tour that besides India, also includes Pakistan, Malaysia, Indonesia. He recently concluded his Pakistan visit.

Saudi Crown Prince Salman to land in India today

Saudi Crown Prince to arrive in India tonight

Pakistan's support of terror and its involvement in the Pulwama attack last week will be a focus of discussion over Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman's two-day visit to India starting Tuesday, government sources told WION.&nbsp;

The prince will be coming to Delhi after visiting Pakistan, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/saudi-arabia-signs-deals-to-invest-20-billion-in-pakistan-197974">where he has announced investments of $20 billion</a>.&nbsp;Saudi Arabia had last year given Pakistan a $6 billion bailout.

India is hoping that Saudi Arabia will curtail its funding to Pakistan should it not rein <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sacrifices-of-our-brave-security-personnel-shall-not-go-in-vain-modi-says-after-pulwama-attack-197456">its support for terror groups based on its soil</a>.&nbsp;

During his visit, Salman will call on President Ram Nath Kovind and have bilateral talks with Prime Minister Modi. This will be the second meet between Modi and the prince in a span of three months. They last met on November 29 in Argentina on the sidelines of the G20 summit.&nbsp;

"One the issues which could come up for discussion are trade and investment, defence, security including counter-terrorism is another. Renewable energy which is something that is coming up as an important area of cooperation,"&nbsp;Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar had said in his briefing last week.

Prime Minister Modi had visited Riyadh in April 2016. Saudi Arabia's King Salman had honoured him then with the "Sash of King Abdulaziz", the highest civilian decoration awarded by the West Asian country.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia is India's fourth-largest trading partner after China, the US and Japan. India imports 17 per cent of its crude oil requirement from the kingdom. Bilateral trade between India and Saudi Arabia stood at $27.48 billion in 2017-18, a year-on-year increase of 9.56 per cent.&nbsp;

"The objective is to consolidate the strategic partnership which we have with the country," Raveesh Kumar had added.&nbsp;

Crown Prince&nbsp;Salman is Saudi Arabia's second-most important person after the king and his designated successor.

Saudi Arabia of course in one of the world's largest oil producers.

In April 2018, Saudi Aramco, the&nbsp;largest company in the world by revenue, signed an MoU with an Indian consortium of IOC, HPCL and BPCL&nbsp;to acquire a 50 per cent stake in India’s largest refinery project. Saudi Aramco paid $44 billion for its stake in Ratnagiri Refinery &amp; Petrochemicals Limited.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A 2.7 million-strong Indian community lives in Saudi Arabia.

The Haj pilgrimage is an important component of the bilateral relations between the two countries. In 2018, Riyadh increased the Indian Haj quota by 5,000, enabling 1,75,025 Indians to undertake the pilgrimage last year.

Pakistan's support of terror and its involvement in the Pulwama attack last week will be a focus of discussion over Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman's two-day visit to India starting Tuesday, government sources told WION.

Pakistan's support of terror and its involvement in the Pulwama attack last week will be a focus of discussion over Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman's two-day visit to India starting Tuesday, government sources told WION. The prince will be coming to Delhi after visiting Pakistan, where he has announced investments of $20 billion. Saudi Arabia had last year given Pakistan a $6 billion bailout. India is hoping that Saudi Arabia will curtail its funding to Pakistan should it not rein its support for terror groups based on its soil. During his visit, Salman will call on President Ram Nath Kovind and have bilateral talks with Prime Minister Modi. This will be the second meet between Modi and the prince in a span of three months. They last met on November 29 in Argentina on the sidelines of the G20 summit. "One the issues which could come up for discussion are trade and investment, defence, security including counter-terrorism is another. Renewable energy which is something that is coming up as an important area of cooperation," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar had said in his briefing last week. Prime Minister Modi had visited Riyadh in April 2016. Saudi Arabia's King Salman had honoured him then with the "Sash of King Abdulaziz", the highest civilian decoration awarded by the West Asian country. Saudi Arabia is India's fourth-largest trading partner after China, the US and Japan. India imports 17 per cent of its crude oil requirement from the kingdom. Bilateral trade between India and Saudi Arabia stood at $27.48 billion in 2017-18, a year-on-year increase of 9.56 per cent. "The objective is to consolidate the strategic partnership which we have with the country," Raveesh Kumar had added. Crown Prince Salman is Saudi Arabia's second-most important person after the king and his designated successor. Saudi Arabia of course in one of the world's largest oil producers. In April 2018, Saudi Aramco, the largest company in the world by revenue, signed an MoU with an Indian consortium of IOC, HPCL and BPCL to acquire a 50 per cent stake in India’s largest refinery project. Saudi Aramco paid $44 billion for its stake in Ratnagiri Refinery & Petrochemicals Limited. A 2.7 million-strong Indian community lives in Saudi Arabia. The Haj pilgrimage is an important component of the bilateral relations between the two countries. In 2018, Riyadh increased the Indian Haj quota by 5,000, enabling 1,75,025 Indians to undertake the pilgrimage last year.

As Saudi crown prince visits India, Pak's terror support to be a focus

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has ordered the release of about 2,100 Pakistani prisoners from the kingdom's jails during a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-honour-saudi-crown-prince-salman-after-20-billion-deals-198036">high-profile visit to Islamabad</a>, Pakistan's information minister said on Monday.

Prince Mohammed arrived in Pakistan on Sunday at the beginning of an Asian tour, which will include China and is seen as an attempt by him to rebuild his reputation after the murder of Saudi critic and journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

Saudi Arabia on Sunday signed investment agreements with Pakistan worth $20 billion.

The crown prince had "ordered the immediate release of 2,107 Pakistani prisoners", after a request by Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said in a post on Twitter.

The fate of thousands of Pakistani workers locked up in jails across the Middle East is a sensitive issue in Pakistan, where there is a perception the prisoners are mostly poor labourers who have no real legal recourse.

Huge numbers of Pakistanis travel to the Middle East every year, with many working on construction sites or as domestic helpers. The remittances they send back are vital for Pakistan's dollar-starved economy.

Saudi Arabia has yet to comment on the Pakistani announcement of a prisoner release.

The crown prince's visit marks a deepening of ties between allies whose relationship has in the past centred on oil-rich Saudi Arabia backing Pakistan's economy during difficult periods, and in return Pakistan's powerful army lending support to Saudi Arabia and its royal family.

As the guardians of most holy sites in the birthplace of Islam, the Saudi royal family carries vast religious influence in Pakistan, a staunchly conservative and mostly Muslim country of 208 million people.

Saudi Arabia has in recent months helped keep Pakistan's economy afloat by propping up rapidly dwindling foreign reserves with a $6 billion loan, giving it breathing room as it negotiates a bailout with the International Monetary Fund.

Pakistan has shown appreciation by treating Prince Mohammed's trip as the biggest state visit since one by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2015, soon after Beijing announced plans to invest tens of billions of dollars on infrastructure in Pakistan as part of China's Belt and Road initiative.

Many in the West blamed Prince Mohammed for the killing of the journalist Khashoggi in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in October.

The murder triggered the kingdom's biggest political crisis for a generation. The crown prince has denied being involved.

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has ordered the release of about 2,100 Pakistani prisoners from the kingdom's jails during a high-profile visit to Islamabad, Pakistan's information minister said on Monday.

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has ordered the release of about 2,100 Pakistani prisoners from the kingdom's jails during a high-profile visit to Islamabad, Pakistan's information minister said on Monday. Prince Mohammed arrived in Pakistan on Sunday at the beginning of an Asian tour, which will include China and is seen as an attempt by him to rebuild his reputation after the murder of Saudi critic and journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Saudi Arabia on Sunday signed investment agreements with Pakistan worth $20 billion. The crown prince had "ordered the immediate release of 2,107 Pakistani prisoners", after a request by Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said in a post on Twitter. The fate of thousands of Pakistani workers locked up in jails across the Middle East is a sensitive issue in Pakistan, where there is a perception the prisoners are mostly poor labourers who have no real legal recourse. Huge numbers of Pakistanis travel to the Middle East every year, with many working on construction sites or as domestic helpers. The remittances they send back are vital for Pakistan's dollar-starved economy. Saudi Arabia has yet to comment on the Pakistani announcement of a prisoner release. The crown prince's visit marks a deepening of ties between allies whose relationship has in the past centred on oil-rich Saudi Arabia backing Pakistan's economy during difficult periods, and in return Pakistan's powerful army lending support to Saudi Arabia and its royal family. As the guardians of most holy sites in the birthplace of Islam, the Saudi royal family carries vast religious influence in Pakistan, a staunchly conservative and mostly Muslim country of 208 million people. Saudi Arabia has in recent months helped keep Pakistan's economy afloat by propping up rapidly dwindling foreign reserves with a $6 billion loan, giving it breathing room as it negotiates a bailout with the International Monetary Fund. Pakistan has shown appreciation by treating Prince Mohammed's trip as the biggest state visit since one by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2015, soon after Beijing announced plans to invest tens of billions of dollars on infrastructure in Pakistan as part of China's Belt and Road initiative. Many in the West blamed Prince Mohammed for the killing of the journalist Khashoggi in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in October. The murder triggered the kingdom's biggest political crisis for a generation. The crown prince has denied being involved.

Pakistan says Saudi crown prince orders 2,100 Pak prisoners released

Saudi Arabia`s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is due to arrive in Pakistan on Sunday at the start of his tour of South Asia and China, but the visit risks being overshadowed by escalating tensions between nuclear-armed rivals India and Pakistan.

The trip comes days after a suicide bomber killed 44 Indian paramilitary police in the disputed Kashmir region. New Delhi has accused Pakistan of having a hand in the bombing and vowed to punish Islamabad, which denies involvement.

Cash-strapped and in need of friends, Pakistan is welcoming the crown prince with open arms for a visit during which he is expected to sign investment agreements worth more than $10 billion.

Saudi Arabia has in recent months helped keep Pakistan`s economy afloat by propping up its rapidly dwindling foreign exchange reserves with a $6 billion loan, giving Islamabad breathing room as it negotiates a bailout with the International Monetary Fund.

Analyst say the crown prince`s trip is being treated by Islamabad as the biggest state visit since Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2015, soon after Beijing announced plans to invest tens of billions of dollars on infrastructure in Pakistan as part of China`s global Belt and Road initiative.

The visit marks a deepening in ties between allies whose relationship has in the past centred on oil-rich Saudi Arabia backing Pakistan`s economy during difficult periods, and in return Pakistan`s powerful army lending support to Saudi Arabia and its royal family.

As the guardians of most holy sites in the birthplace of Islam, the Saudi royal family carries vast religious clout in Pakistan, a staunchly conservative and mainly-Muslim nation of 208 million people.

"What is happening in this relationship is a renewal of Pakistan`s commitment to help protect the royal family and the order as it exists in Saudi Arabia," said Mosharraf Zaidi, Senior Fellow at Tabadlab, a Pakistani think tank focused on global and local public policy.

"On the flip side, there is reassurance that Saudi Arabia will not only continue to serve as a strategic friend who will help shore up Pakistan`s finances when needed, but it`s also going to become a participant in the wider investment in Pakistan."

Pakistan is shutting down its airspace and has stepped up security in Islamabad for the crown prince, who is set to become the first guest to stay at the Prime Minister`s House. Pakistan`s new populist premier, Imran Khan, has refused to use the residence in a bid to save taxpayers` money.&nbsp;

Pakistani hopes for further investment opportunities from Saudi Arabia were dealt a blow on Saturday when the government announced that the Pak-Saudi Business Conference had been "postponed".

Pakistani officials have already flagged up that Saudi Arabia will announce eight investment agreements, including a $10 billion refinery and petrochemicals complex in the coastal city of Gwadar, where China is building a port.

But the crown prince`s arrival comes amid a vow by India to isolate Pakistan internationally following the deadliest attack in Kashmir in decades.&nbsp;

New Delhi is demanding Islamabad act against the Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) militant group, which it says has the backing of the Pakistani state, over the bombing. Islamabad denies playing a role and has called for an investigation.

In Islamabad, the crown prince is expected to meet Khan and Pakistan`s army chief, Qamar Javed Bajwa. He is also likely to meet representatives of the Afghan Taliban militant group to discuss peace negotiations to end the 17-year civil war in Afghanistan, Pakistani government sources say.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia`s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is due to arrive in Pakistan on Sunday at the start of his tour of South Asia and China, but the visit risks being overshadowed by escalating tensions between nuclear-armed rivals India and Pakistan.

Saudi Arabia`s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is due to arrive in Pakistan on Sunday at the start of his tour of South Asia and China, but the visit risks being overshadowed by escalating tensions between nuclear-armed rivals India and Pakistan. The trip comes days after a suicide bomber killed 44 Indian paramilitary police in the disputed Kashmir region. New Delhi has accused Pakistan of having a hand in the bombing and vowed to punish Islamabad, which denies involvement. Cash-strapped and in need of friends, Pakistan is welcoming the crown prince with open arms for a visit during which he is expected to sign investment agreements worth more than $10 billion. Saudi Arabia has in recent months helped keep Pakistan`s economy afloat by propping up its rapidly dwindling foreign exchange reserves with a $6 billion loan, giving Islamabad breathing room as it negotiates a bailout with the International Monetary Fund. Analyst say the crown prince`s trip is being treated by Islamabad as the biggest state visit since Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2015, soon after Beijing announced plans to invest tens of billions of dollars on infrastructure in Pakistan as part of China`s global Belt and Road initiative. The visit marks a deepening in ties between allies whose relationship has in the past centred on oil-rich Saudi Arabia backing Pakistan`s economy during difficult periods, and in return Pakistan`s powerful army lending support to Saudi Arabia and its royal family. As the guardians of most holy sites in the birthplace of Islam, the Saudi royal family carries vast religious clout in Pakistan, a staunchly conservative and mainly-Muslim nation of 208 million people. "What is happening in this relationship is a renewal of Pakistan`s commitment to help protect the royal family and the order as it exists in Saudi Arabia," said Mosharraf Zaidi, Senior Fellow at Tabadlab, a Pakistani think tank focused on global and local public policy. "On the flip side, there is reassurance that Saudi Arabia will not only continue to serve as a strategic friend who will help shore up Pakistan`s finances when needed, but it`s also going to become a participant in the wider investment in Pakistan." Pakistan is shutting down its airspace and has stepped up security in Islamabad for the crown prince, who is set to become the first guest to stay at the Prime Minister`s House. Pakistan`s new populist premier, Imran Khan, has refused to use the residence in a bid to save taxpayers` money. Pakistani hopes for further investment opportunities from Saudi Arabia were dealt a blow on Saturday when the government announced that the Pak-Saudi Business Conference had been "postponed". Pakistani officials have already flagged up that Saudi Arabia will announce eight investment agreements, including a $10 billion refinery and petrochemicals complex in the coastal city of Gwadar, where China is building a port. But the crown prince`s arrival comes amid a vow by India to isolate Pakistan internationally following the deadliest attack in Kashmir in decades. New Delhi is demanding Islamabad act against the Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) militant group, which it says has the backing of the Pakistani state, over the bombing. Islamabad denies playing a role and has called for an investigation. In Islamabad, the crown prince is expected to meet Khan and Pakistan`s army chief, Qamar Javed Bajwa. He is also likely to meet representatives of the Afghan Taliban militant group to discuss peace negotiations to end the 17-year civil war in Afghanistan, Pakistani government sources say.

Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman heads for cash-strapped Pakistan

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