The king, currently on a four-nation tour that is his first state visit since ascending the throne, said India should have observer status, similar to Russia's, at the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC). He added it would be "beneficial" if India's entry was put forward "by a nation like Pakistan". This was interpreted by sources as indirect criticism of Islamabad, which has been the primary obstacle to India's entry into the OIC.
He expressed the hope that tensions between the two South Asian countries could be eased "for the benefit of both countries". The Saudi monarch said he believed the Indo-Pakistan conflict was "not in the interests of either country" and regretted that this rivalry had led to violence and the loss of "innocent lives". He asked why this rivalry could not be resolved through dialogue. Such a resolution would "enhance the image and reputation of both countries"

He responded to longstanding charges that Saudi money finances Islamic militant groups in Pakistan by saying, "Saudi financial support to Pakistan is only given to the government of Pakistan". He was categorical that his government did not support terrorism in any way. "We are also victims of terrorism," he said. "Those who level this charge are basing them on anything but facts." King Abdullah, who prefers his temporal title of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, spoke at length about the present religious problems of the day. He noted Muslims needed to resolve differences between themselves and with others. "Fears about the Islamic faith are not justified," he said. "The Islamic faith is about love, compassion and brotherhood...it is a faith that calls for dialogue."