Why Did CM Vijayan's Middle East Tour Exclude Saudi Arabia?
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Synopsis
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's Middle East tour is now missing Saudi Arabia after the Ministry of External Affairs denied permission. The itinerary now includes Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and the UAE, sparking political scrutiny amidst ongoing investigations involving his son. Will this tour yield the expected engagement with the expatriate Malayali community?
Key Takeaways
- CM Vijayan's tour excludes Saudi Arabia.
- New itinerary includes five Middle Eastern countries.
- Focus on promoting the Malayalam language.
- Political scrutiny surrounds the tour.
- Family members' involvement remains speculative.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 13 (NationPress) The Middle East tour of Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has been altered following the Ministry of External Affairs denying permission for him to visit Saudi Arabia.
The updated itinerary will now feature Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and the UAE. Vijayan, alongside Fisheries and Culture Minister Saji Cherian, is set to kick off the tour on Tuesday, beginning in Bahrain.
Throughout this multi-nation journey, Vijayan is anticipated to return to Kerala two times before wrapping up the tour on December 1.
Cherian informed IANS that activities in each nation will aim to promote the Malayalam language and connect with the extensive expatriate Malayali community.
However, the Chief Minister's foreign travel has once again faced backlash from the opposition.
The Congress-led UDF argues that Vijayan's numerous overseas trips since 2016—totalling over two dozen to several countries—have not resulted in any significant investment advantages.
Countries previously visited by the CM include the UK, US, various European nations, and multiple trips to the Gulf.
This year's UAE leg is expected to attract specific scrutiny, especially as it coincides with renewed interest in the Enforcement Directorate (ED) summons issued in 2023 to his son, Vivek Kiran Vijayan.
Notably, his son is employed at a multinational bank in the UAE.
The summons, which emerged over the weekend, is connected to the SNC Lavalin case currently before the Supreme Court, in which the Chief Minister is also implicated.
The absence of clearance for the Saudi Arabia leg is expected to lead to slight modifications in the schedule.
Meanwhile, speculation continues regarding whether family members—including the Chief Minister's wife, daughter, and grandson—will join the delegation, as has reportedly occurred in past foreign excursions.
Officially aimed at cultural outreach and diaspora engagement, the tour is likely to be closely monitored both politically and publicly.
Point of View
I recognize the necessity for thorough examination of public officials' actions, including CM Vijayan's foreign trips. While promoting cultural outreach is crucial, the apparent lack of tangible results raises valid questions. Our coverage aims to maintain a balanced perspective, ensuring we hold leaders accountable while acknowledging their responsibilities.
NationPress
14/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What countries will CM Vijayan visit during his tour?
CM Vijayan will visit Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and the UAE during his Middle East tour.
Why was Saudi Arabia removed from the itinerary?
Permission for CM Vijayan's visit to Saudi Arabia was denied by the Ministry of External Affairs.
What is the purpose of the tour?
The tour aims to promote the Malayalam language and engage with the expatriate Malayali community.
Has CM Vijayan faced criticism for his foreign trips?
Yes, the opposition has criticized his frequent overseas trips, claiming they have not resulted in significant investments.
What is the significance of the UAE leg of the tour?
The UAE leg is under scrutiny due to ongoing investigations involving CM Vijayan's son and the SNC Lavalin case.
