Describing the Gulf and West Asia region was a "key priority" in India's external engagement, PM Modi ahead of his visit said his trip was aimed at strengthening ties with the region, news agency PTI reported. 

"This region is a key priority in our external engagement. We enjoy vibrant multi-dimensional ties with the countries here. I look forward to strengthening India's growing and important ties with West Asia and the Gulf region through the visit," PM Modi had said in his departure statement.