‘Memorandum of understanding was signed between the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development of Saudi Arabia and the National Skill Development Corporation in India for the exchange of knowledge and experience on skills systems and workforce development’. Recent workshops between the Ministry and partners in India | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
Saudi Arabia and India enjoy a special relationship that reflects decades of economic and socio-cultural ties.
Diplomatic relations were established in 1947, and at the center of the enduring partnership are significant exchanges and collaborations that have greatly contributed to the development and prosperity of both countries.
Our two countries continue to share a close and mutually beneficial relationship, and Saudi Arabia is very proud to be a popular migration destination for Indian workers who have strong ties to the Kingdom. With more than two million Indian expatriates working in the Kingdom, the relationship between our countries has never been stronger or more productive.
Contribution of Indian foreign workers
For decades, Indian expatriate workers have been an integral part of Saudi Arabia’s workforce, bringing skills, dedication, and resilience to various sectors. From construction to health care, education to engineering, their contribution has been working with the domestic workforce to build the Kingdom’s infrastructure and improve the social fabric.
In both countries, we focus on our strengths in information technology, space science, and other frontier technologies. This opens up great opportunities for mutually beneficial collaboration. India has one of the largest scientific and technical manpower pools in the world and is known for its technological prowess. Many Indian expatriates, who specialize in IT, can contribute more to the growth of Saudi IT and knowledge-based industries as we move closer to the targets set in Vision 2030.
The recent high-level talks between Saudi and Indian leaders mark an important moment in our relations. The discussions paved the way for substantial Saudi investment in India, reflecting their shared commitment to economic collaboration and mutual prosperity.
Transforming the labor market
Our collaboration with India has helped pave the way for initiatives that have transformed the labor market in the Kingdom. The Labor Reform Initiative (LRI) in 2021 marks a significant leap forward, promoting free mobility, improving contractual relations, and strengthening the legal rights of millions of workers. Saudi Arabia is also focused on improving the welfare of expatriate workers through various initiatives, including greater protection for workers’ wages, better living conditions, and comprehensive health insurance, so that Indian workers can thrive in a safe and supportive environment. .
In order to improve the skills and abilities of Indian employees, India has entered into a Skills Verification Program with Saudi Arabia. This program aims to certify the qualifications and competence of Indian workers, so that they can meet the standards required by the Saudi labor market. These initiatives not only improve the quality of the workforce but also improve the prospects of Indian workers in Saudi Arabia.
Another initiative
In addition, our bilateral relationship extends beyond labor collaboration. Saudi Arabia and India have engaged in numerous cultural exchange programs, joint ventures in technology and innovation, and collaborative efforts in education, vocational training, and research. These initiatives have strengthened the socio-cultural bonds between our communities and have paved the way for a more integrated and holistic partnership.
On the sidelines of the Global Labor Market Conference (GLMC) in Riyadh in December 2023, a memorandum of understanding was signed between the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development of Saudi Arabia and the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) in India to exchange knowledge and experience. on skills systems and workforce development.
Going forward, it is important to continue this collaborative effort to ensure opportunities for Indian workers in the Kingdom’s labor market continue to grow.
These strong bilateral ties emphasize the benefits of cooperative engagement and mutual goals. By working together, both countries can achieve greater economic stability and development, building a more prosperous future for all.
Abdullah Nasser Abuthnain is the Deputy Minister of Labour, Saudi Arabia
Published – November 06, 2024 02:20 IST
