NSA Ajit Doval wrapped high-level Riyadh talks Sunday, meeting Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, FM Prince Faisal bin Farhan, and NSA Musaed Al-Aiban to deepen bilateral bonds.
Broad Agenda Covered
Discussions spanned energy security, regional stability (West Asia hotspots), counter-terrorism, and mutual interests amid Hormuz volatility. Doval’s unannounced visit—received by Ambassador Suhel Ajaz Khan—signals proactive India amid global flux.
Energy Focus Sharpens
Saudi’s top oil exporter status (India’s key supplier) dominates: refining pacts, investments via Vision 2030. Builds on Strategic Partnership Council (SPC), Delhi/Riyadh Declarations—trade hit $52B FY25.
Regional Context
Comes post-Doval’s Ukraine huddle, Hormuz tanker incidents; underscores India’s balancing act in US-Iran tensions, Gaza ripple effects. Saudi hosts Oman talks on Iran; India eyes neutral broker role.
