Riyadh, Aug 15 (IANS): Indian expatriates through their hard work, dedication, discipline and law abiding nature, have earned the goodwill of Saudi Arabia, Indian Consul General, B.S. Mubarak said on the occasion of India's 69th Independence Day on Saturday.

"I take this opportunity to acknowledge the contribution of the Indian expatriate community in building a positive image of India in Saudi Arabia and in promoting India-Saudi relations," Arab News quoted Mubarak as saying in a message to the Indian community.

Highlighting the strong relations between India and Saudi Arabia, he said a strong framework for strategic partnership exists between the two countries.

"This relationship has led to a remarkable growth in bilateral trade relations which is valued at $36.61 billion for the year 2014-15," he said, adding that the 'Make In India' campaign launched in the western region of Saudi Arabia has evoked enormous interest among Saudi investors.

Mubarak said that this year flights from India carrying Haj pilgrims would start arriving on August 16.

"Last year, 136,000 Indian pilgrims performed haj and left the Kingdom with a great sense of satisfaction," he added.

The 2.5 million Indians in Saudi Arabia form the largest expatriate community.