Indian Community in Jeddah Welcomes New Consul General, Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri

By Abdul Rahman M. Baig

Jeddah, September 5: The Indian community in Jeddah recently hosted a grand reception for Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, the newly appointed Consul General of India, at the International Indian School, Jeddah (IISJ). The event saw a significant turnout, with community members, consulate officials, IISJ staff, and notable figures from various states of India in attendance.

The evening was a showcase of support and unity among the Indian diaspora, who were eager to greet their new representative. Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri was warmly welcomed with a bouquet of flowers, presented by Zaina Ghazali, marking the beginning of the ceremony.

Asim Zeeshan, the master of ceremonies, conducted the event with professionalism, while Vijay Soni, General Secretary of the Saudi Indian Business Network, opened with a heartfelt welcome speech.

In his keynote address, Fahad Suri expressed his gratitude to the Indian community for their unwavering support. He underscored the importance of strengthening trade relations between Saudi Arabia and India, stressing that closer cooperation between the two nations could lead to expanded cultural and economic exchanges.

Mr. Suri highlighted that collaboration among Indian professionals could enhance trade opportunities, spurring investment and innovation for a prosperous future. He also announced the consulate’s initiative to register Indian businesses and professionals, aiming to create a comprehensive database to bolster bilateral ties. Furthermore, he assured the community that the consulate’s open house events would continue with greater focus.

The event also featured vibrant cultural performances by talented children from Good Hope Academy and Phenom Group, showcasing India’s rich cultural diversity. Traditional dances, music, and songs, performed by Sikandar and Amjad Baig, created a festive atmosphere, symbolizing unity and shared aspirations. The entertainment continued with a live performance by the Calicut Music Lovers Club, captivating the audience with songs in multiple languages.

The reception also offered the perfect opportunity for group photos, with the Consul General posing alongside members of the Indian diaspora, consulate staff, and IISJ officials.

The beautifully decorated auditorium, adorned in a tricolor theme by Ayesha Saif, added to the celebratory spirit of the occasion. The event concluded with a sumptuous dinner catered by Biryani Gate restaurant, leaving attendees with a sense of warmth and camaraderie.

Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri’s appointment as the new Consul General of Jeddah marks a new chapter in the India-Saudi Arabia relationship, with hopes of further strengthening ties in the coming years