NSA Doval discusses enhancing energy security, protecting maritime corridors during Riyadh visit
Riyadh, July 21
National Security Advisor Ajit Doval reviewed the progress in India-Saudi bilateral relations and discussed the current regional situation during his official visit to the Middle East nation.
"Hon'ble NSA Shri Ajit Doval paid an official visit to Riyadh on 20 July. He was warmly received at the airport by H.E. Dr. Saud Al-Sati, Deputy Minister for Political Affairs, and Ambassador Dr. Suhel Khan," the Embassy of India in Riyadh wrote on X on Tuesday.
"During the visit, the NSA met H.R.H. Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, Minister of Energy, H.H. Prince Faisal bin Farhan, Minister of Foreign Affairs; and H.E. Dr. Musaed Al-Aiban, National Security Advisor," it added.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia, the meeting was also attended by Deputy Minister for Political Affairs, Ambassador Saud Al-Sati.
"Foreign Minister HH Prince received Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. During the meeting, they reviewed bilateral relations and ways to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two friendly countries. They also discussed the latest regional developments and the efforts to enhance energy security and protect maritime corridors," the Saudi Foreign Ministry noted on X.
According to Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Energy, during their meeting in Riyadh, NSA Doval and Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz - the Saudi Minister of Energy and Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources - reviewed bilateral energy cooperation and discussed ways to expand it, including joint efforts to strengthen energy security and ensure stability of its supplies.
NSA Doval had also paid an official visit to Saudi Arabia in April and engaged in a series of high-level meetings with senior Saudi leadership to strengthen bilateral relations, enhance energy cooperation, and discuss key regional developments.
Top officials indicate that NSA Doval's recent visits to Riyadh underscore the growing strategic partnership between India and Saudi Arabia amid evolving geopolitical dynamics as the discussions have covered a broad spectrum of issues, including bilateral cooperation, regional security concerns, and matters of mutual interest.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Good to see India playing a more active role in regional diplomacy. But I hope we're also focusing on renewable energy partnerships, not just oil and gas. Diversifying our energy basket should be a priority. 🌱
Impressive that NSA Doval is back in Riyadh so soon after his April visit. Clearly India sees Saudi Arabia as a key partner in the region. The maritime security angle is especially important for our energy imports.
I appreciate the diplomatic outreach, but critics will say we're becoming too dependent on Gulf nations for energy. We need to balance this with domestic production and alternative sources. Still, better to engage than isolate.
Interesting how both countries are prioritizing maritime corridor protection. With Houthi attacks in the Red Sea and piracy threats, this cooperation makes strategic sense. 🇮🇳🇸🇦
With global energy markets so volatile, having a strong relationship with Saudi Arabia is a no-brainer. But let's also push for technology transfer in solar and hydrogen - that's where the future lies.
Respect to NSA Doval for his tireless efforts. These high-level visits build trust and deliver results. The Gulf is our extended neighborhood and these ties are vital for our national security.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.