In Riyadh, Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan to discuss strengthening energy security and protecting maritime corridors amid regional tensions.

The India–Saudi partnership is expanding across energy, investments, defense, technology, and trade, supported by a large Indian expatriate community of about 2.6 million in Saudi Arabia.

This visit marks Doval’s third trip to Saudi Arabia in 2026, with Saudi Deputy Minister for Political Affairs Saud Al-Sati in attendance.

Leaders reviewed bilateral relations and explored ways to deepen cooperation across multiple domains.

Over the past decade, the relationship has grown into a broad-based strategic partnership anchored in energy, investment, defense, security, counter-terrorism, and vibrant people-to-people ties.

Both sides emphasized a strong commitment to robust bilateral ties and collaboration on shared strategic interests.

Separately, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced a forthcoming trip to Manila for ASEAN-related meetings and a Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, with bilateral engagements planned during the visit.

India–Saudi defense and security cooperation has expanded recently, including counter-terrorism, defense industries, capacity building, and ongoing exchanges, with opportunities in Riyadh’s diversification and India’s manufacturing capabilities.

Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry acknowledged the outgoing Indian ambassador’s contributions to strengthening ties and welcomed continued cooperation.

Indian Ambassador Suhel Khan concluded his tenure with farewell meetings at the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reaffirming commitment to bilateral relations.