Indian PM Narendra Modi on Tuesday arrived in Saudi Arabia and said he expects the visit will strengthen the friendship between the two countries.

As a special gesture, Modi's aircraft was escorted by  F15 fighter jets of the Royal Saudi Air Force in Saudi airspace.

"Landed in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This visit will strengthen the friendship between India and Saudi Arabia. Eager to take part in the various programmes today and tomorrow," Modi posted on X.

India Deeply Values Long, Historic Ties, Says Modi

In his departure speech before leaving for Saudi Arabia, Modi said India deeply values its long and historic ties with the Middle East nation that have acquired strategic depth and momentum in recent years.

Before commencing his visit to Saudi Arabia, Modi said: "Together, we have developed a mutually beneficial and substantive partnership including in the domains of defence, trade, investment, energy and people to people ties. We have shared interest and commitment to promote regional peace, prosperity, security and stability."

"This will be my third visit to Saudi Arabia over the past decade and a first one to the historic city of Jeddah. I look forward to participating in the 2nd Meeting of the Strategic Partnership Council and build upon the highly successful State visit of my brother His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman to India in 2023," he said.

Modi said he is eager to meet the Indian community in the country.

Modi said: "I am also eager to connect with the vibrant Indian community in Saudi Arabia that continues to serve as the living bridge between our nations and making immense contribution to strengthening the cultural and human ties."

Modi is visiting the country from April 22 to April 23 at the invitation of Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.