NSA Ajit Doval in Riyadh: Meets Saudi ministers over regional security, energy

Riyadh: Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval arrived in the Saudi capital on Sunday for high-level consultations with the kingdom's leadership to discuss bilateral cooperation and the volatile regional security environment.

Doval was greeted upon his arrival by India’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Suhel Khan, and the Saudi Deputy Minister for Political Affairs, Saud Al-Sati.

During his mission, the national security advisor engaged in a series of strategic meetings with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan, Energy Minister Abdulaziz bin Salman, and his Saudi counterpart, National Security Advisor Musaed Al-Aiban.

Bilateral and Regional Focus

According to a statement released by the Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia on the social media platform X, the delegations reviewed "bilateral relations, the regional situation and other issues of mutual interests."

The diplomatic visit occurs as the international community anticipates a potential second round of negotiations between the United States and Iran in Pakistan later this week. These efforts are aimed at securing a resolution to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, which has significantly disrupted global trade and energy markets.

Diplomatic Context

The initial session of face-to-face talks between Washington and Tehran took place in Islamabad on April 11 and 12. Those discussions concluded without a formal agreement, leaving the region in a state of heightened tension as a standing ceasefire nears its expiration.

New Delhi has maintained a consistent interest in regional stability, given its significant energy ties to the Gulf and the presence of a large Indian diaspora in the area. Doval’s presence in Riyadh underscores India's efforts to coordinate with key regional partners as mediators work to bridge the gap between the warring parties.

With inputs from PTI