NEW DELHI, Jan 24: Saudi King Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz Al-Saud arrived here on Tuesday as chief guest for India’s January 26 Republic Day military parade that will this year display nuclear-capable missiles designed to target Pakistan and China, both countries on the king’s current itinerary.
Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh broke protocol to receive King Abdullah as he arrived from Beijing. He is due to visit Malaysia and Pakistan after a four-day visit to India, first by a Saudi monarch in more than 50 years.
The monarch has said in an interview to an Indian TV channel that he wants better relations between India and Pakistan.
An official Indian statement announcing the military parade said: “A strong and resurgent India is celebrating its 57th Republic Day on 26 January 2006. This year’s parade will highlight the nation’s achievements in various fields, the military prowess and our rich and diverse cultural heritage.”
It said the Indian Armed Forces ‘will showcase the Brahmos Supersonic Cruise Missiles, Agni-I, Agni-II and Prithvi II surface-to-surface missiles,’ the last three being capable of delivering nuclear weapons to target India’s neighbours, chiefly Pakistan and China.
King Abdullah will also watch India’s home-built main battle tank Arjun, 155/45 mm E1 Soltam artillery guns, Tunguska and Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launching system, AN/TPQ-37 weapon locating radars, and bridge layer tank on Arjun chassis, the statement said.
The two countries will sign three agreements — a memorandum of understanding on combating terrorism, a double taxation avoidance treaty and one for promoting bilateral investment.
The issue of hydrocarbon cooperation will also be a component of talks between Dr Singh and the Saudi king.
Thousands of policemen and paramilitary troopers are keeping a strict vigil in the Indian capital. The Times of India said security had been specially tightened for King Abdullah due to threats to his life from several terrorist organisations, including Al Qaeda.
