Saudi Arabia, India Expand Strategic Partnership Council

Saudi Arabia and India have agreed to expand their Strategic Partnership Council to include four ministerial committees, adding defense cooperation and tourism and cultural cooperation, during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the Kingdom on April 22, 2025. The announcement came in a joint statement released at the conclusion of the visit, which was hosted by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. The two leaders co-chaired the second meeting of the Saudi-Indian Strategic Partnership Council and signed the minutes of the meeting, underscoring a shared commitment to deepen ties across defense, security, energy, trade, investment, technology, agriculture, culture, health, education, and people-to-people exchanges. The visit marked Modi’s third trip to the Kingdom, following the Crown Prince’s historic state visit to India in September 2023 for the G20 Summit, where the first council meeting was held.

The expansion reflects a deliberate effort by both nations to institutionalize cooperation at the highest levels. By adding ministerial committees on defense cooperation and on tourism and cultural cooperation to the existing committees on political, security, social and cultural cooperation, and on economy and investment, the council now covers a broader spectrum of strategic interests. This structure enables regular, high-level dialogue and coordinated action, ensuring that the partnership moves beyond declarations into tangible outcomes. The joint statement also noted with appreciation the large number of high-level visits across various ministries that have built trust and mutual understanding on both sides. For international observers, the development signals a deepening of ties between two influential nations at a time of shifting global dynamics and regional challenges.

Context and Background

How did the Saudi-Indian relationship evolve to reach this level of strategic alignment? The foundation was laid over decades of growing economic and people-to-people ties, but the formal strategic partnership was elevated in 2019 with the establishment of the Strategic Partnership Council during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Riyadh. That council was designed to provide a high-level platform for cooperation, and its first meeting was held in September 2023 in New Delhi, co-chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Prime Minister Modi on the sidelines of the G20 Summit. Since then, the two sides have worked through ministerial committees and joint working groups to advance collaboration in diverse fields.

The relationship is anchored in strong historical bonds and close people-to-people ties, marked by trust and goodwill. The joint statement recalled the solid foundation of bilateral relations, which has further strengthened through the strategic partnership. India and Saudi Arabia have long cooperated in energy, with Saudi Arabia being a reliable supplier of crude oil to India, and in recent years the partnership has expanded into new areas such as technology, renewable energy, and defense. The presence of around 2.7 million Indian nationals in the Kingdom reflects the deep human connections that underpin the relationship. The Indian side expressed appreciation for the continuing welfare of these expatriates, highlighting the social dimension of the partnership.

The second meeting of the council provided an opportunity to review progress since 2023 and to chart the way forward. Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the two existing ministerial committees and their subcommittees, which cover political, security, social and cultural cooperation as well as economy and investment. The decision to expand to four committees was welcomed as a reflection of the deepening strategic partnership. The joint statement also noted that the two leaders exchanged views on current regional and international issues of mutual interest, reinforcing the council’s role as a platform for strategic dialogue on global affairs.

Key Details of the Expanded Partnership

What specific areas will the expanded council address, and how will it function? The addition of a Ministerial Committee on Defense Cooperation is a significant step, as it elevates defense ties to a key pillar of the strategic partnership. The joint statement appreciated the deepening of defense ties and welcomed the creation of this committee. While specific defense projects were not detailed, the committee will provide a structured framework for dialogue on defense and security matters, potentially leading to joint exercises, training, and defense industrial collaboration. This aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goal of localizing defense industries and enhancing national security capabilities.

The Ministerial Committee on Tourism and Cultural Cooperation opens new avenues for people-to-people exchanges and economic diversification. Tourism is a priority sector under Vision 2030, and Saudi Arabia has been actively promoting its cultural heritage and natural attractions to international visitors. India, with its large outbound tourism market, represents a key source of visitors. The committee will facilitate cooperation in tourism promotion, cultural events, and heritage preservation. The joint statement also highlighted the excellent coordination between the two countries in facilitating Hajj and Umrah for Indian pilgrims, with India congratulating Saudi Arabia for successfully holding the Hajj in 2024. This cooperation is expected to deepen further under the new committee.

Beyond the council expansion, the two leaders oversaw the signing of several agreements and understandings. The High-Level Task Force, constituted in 2024 to promote investment flows, reached understandings in multiple areas, including an agreement to collaborate on establishing two refineries. Progress was also made on taxation issues, which is a major breakthrough for future cooperation. The two sides affirmed their desire to complete negotiations on the Bilateral Investment Treaty at the earliest. The Indian side appreciated the launch of the India Desk at the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which will act as a nodal point for investment facilitation. These developments underscore the growing economic partnership, focusing on mutual growth and collaborative investments.

International and Regional Impact

How will this expanded partnership influence regional and global dynamics? The joint statement emphasized the importance of joint action on global issues, with both sides agreeing to enhance cooperation and coordination within international organizations and forums such as the G20, the International Monetary Fund, and the World Bank. This commitment aims to bolster efforts in addressing global economic challenges. By aligning their positions in multilateral settings, Saudi Arabia and India can amplify their voices on issues ranging from economic stability to climate change. The partnership also contributes to regional stability, as both nations share an interest in a peaceful and prosperous Middle East and South Asia.

The energy dimension of the partnership has significant implications for global oil markets. The Indian side agreed to work with the Kingdom to enhance the stability of global oil markets and to balance global energy market dynamics. They emphasized the need to ensure security of supply for all energy sources. Cooperation will extend to crude oil and derivatives including LPG, collaboration in India’s Strategic Reserve Program, joint projects in refining and petrochemicals, and renewable energy including a joint study for electrical interconnection between the two countries. This comprehensive energy partnership supports global energy security and aligns with the transition to cleaner sources, as both sides also agreed to cooperate on green/clean hydrogen and circular carbon economy applications.

The partnership also touches on climate change, with both sides reaffirming adherence to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement. India commended Saudi Arabia’s launch of the Saudi Green Initiative and the Middle East Green Initiative, and expressed support for the Kingdom’s climate efforts. In turn, Saudi Arabia appreciated India’s contributions to global climate action through initiatives like the International Solar Alliance and Mission LiFE. This mutual recognition of climate efforts demonstrates a shared commitment to sustainable development, which is a core element of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and India’s own developmental goals.

Economic and Strategic Significance

What does this mean for trade and investment between the two countries? Bilateral trade has grown steadily, with India being Saudi Arabia’s second largest trading partner and Saudi Arabia being India’s fifth largest trading partner in 2023-2024. Both sides agreed to further enhance cooperation to diversify bilateral trade, including increasing visits of business and trade delegations and holding trade and investment events. They also reiterated their desire to commence negotiations on the India-GCC Free Trade Agreement. The economic relationship is being strengthened through the High-Level Task Force, which has made progress on investment facilitation, and through the India Desk at PIF. These mechanisms are designed to streamline investments and create new opportunities for businesses on both sides.

The strategic significance extends beyond economics. The expansion of the council to include defense cooperation signals a deepening security partnership that could contribute to regional stability. The tourism and cultural committee will foster greater understanding and people-to-people ties, which are essential for long-term friendship. The joint statement also noted the growing cooperation in technology, fintech, digital infrastructure, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and health. Indian companies are expanding their investment activities in the Kingdom, and the private sector is playing a key role in enhancing mutual investments. Both sides agreed to facilitate enhanced cooperation in the startup ecosystem, contributing to mutual growth and innovation. This comprehensive approach reflects a maturing partnership that leverages the complementary strengths of both economies.

Vision 2030 Alignment

How does this partnership support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030? The expansion of the Strategic Partnership Council directly aligns with Vision 2030’s objectives of economic diversification, global engagement, and enhancing the quality of life. The defense cooperation committee supports the localization of defense industries, a key Vision 2030 goal. The tourism and cultural committee advances efforts to attract international visitors and showcase Saudi heritage, contributing to the growth of the tourism sector. Economic cooperation, including investment flows and trade diversification, supports the development of non-oil sectors and the creation of jobs. The India Desk at PIF facilitates foreign investment, which is crucial for funding Vision 2030 projects. Overall, the partnership with India is a model of the international collaboration that Vision 2030 seeks to foster.

The joint statement also acknowledged India’s own developmental goal of Viksit Bharat, or becoming a developed country by 2047, and both sides agreed to work together to fulfill respective national goals and achieve shared prosperity. This mutual recognition of each other’s visions creates a positive synergy. Saudi Arabia’s progress under Vision 2030 was congratulated by the Indian side, reflecting international recognition of the Kingdom’s reform agenda. As Saudi Arabia continues to transform its economy and society, partnerships like this one with India will be instrumental in achieving the ambitious targets of Vision 2030. The forward-looking conclusion of the visit sets the stage for even closer coordination in the years ahead, benefiting both nations and contributing to global stability and prosperity.

20 Questions

Q1. What was the main outcome of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Saudi Arabia in April 2025?

A1. The main outcome was the expansion of the Saudi-Indian Strategic Partnership Council to include four ministerial committees and the signing of the minutes of the second council meeting, deepening bilateral ties.

Q2. Which new ministerial committees were added to the Strategic Partnership Council?

A2. The new committees are the Ministerial Committee on Defense Cooperation and the Ministerial Committee on Tourism and Cultural Cooperation, reflecting the broadening scope of the partnership.

Q3. Who co-chaired the second meeting of the Saudi-Indian Strategic Partnership Council?

A3. The meeting was co-chaired by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Q4. How many times has Prime Minister Modi visited Saudi Arabia?

A4. This was Prime Minister Modi’s third visit to the Kingdom, following previous visits that have strengthened the strategic partnership between the two nations.

Q5. What was the significance of the Crown Prince’s visit to India in September 2023?

A5. The Crown Prince visited India for the G20 Summit and co-chaired the first meeting of the Saudi-Indian Strategic Partnership Council, setting the stage for expanded cooperation.

Q6. How many Indian nationals reside in Saudi Arabia?

A6. Around 2.7 million Indian nationals reside in the Kingdom, reflecting the strong people-to-people bonds and the Indian side expressed appreciation for their welfare.

Q7. What did the two leaders discuss regarding global economic challenges?

A7. They agreed to enhance cooperation and coordination within international organizations such as the G20, International Monetary Fund, and World Bank to address global economic challenges.

Q8. What progress was made on the Bilateral Investment Treaty?

A8. Both sides affirmed their desire to complete negotiations on the Bilateral Investment Treaty at the earliest, aiming to facilitate and protect investments.

Q9. What is the role of the High-Level Task Force?

A9. The High-Level Task Force, constituted in 2024, promotes investment flows between the two countries and has reached understandings in multiple areas, including establishing two refineries.

Q10. What is the India Desk at the Public Investment Fund?

A10. The India Desk at the Public Investment Fund (PIF) acts as the nodal point for investment facilitation by PIF, supporting Saudi investments in India.

Q11. How do Saudi Arabia and India cooperate on energy?

A11. They cooperate on crude oil supply, India’s Strategic Reserve Program, refining and petrochemical projects, renewable energy, electrical interconnection, and green hydrogen.

Q12. What is the significance of the circular carbon economy in their partnership?

A12. Both sides stressed cooperation to develop circular carbon economy applications, promoting policies to manage emissions and achieve climate change objectives.

Q13. What climate initiatives did India commend Saudi Arabia for?

A13. India commended the Saudi Green Initiative and the Middle East Green Initiative, expressing support for the Kingdom’s efforts in addressing climate change.

Q14. What are the trade volumes between India and Saudi Arabia?

A14. India is Saudi Arabia’s second largest trading partner, and Saudi Arabia is India’s fifth largest trading partner in 2023-2024, with both sides seeking to diversify trade.

Q15. What is the India-GCC Free Trade Agreement?

A15. The India-GCC FTA is a proposed free trade agreement between India and the Gulf Cooperation Council, and both sides reiterated their desire to commence negotiations.

Q16. How does the partnership support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030?

A16. It supports Vision 2030 through defense localization, tourism growth, economic diversification, and foreign investment, aligning with the Kingdom’s reform goals.

Q17. What did the Indian side congratulate Saudi Arabia for regarding Hajj?

A17. India congratulated Saudi Arabia for successfully holding the Hajj in 2024 and appreciated the excellent coordination in facilitating Hajj and Umrah for Indian pilgrims.

Q18. What areas of technology cooperation are mentioned?

A18. Cooperation includes fintech, digital infrastructure, telecommunications, and startups, with both sides agreeing to facilitate enhanced cooperation in the startup ecosystem.

Q19. What is India’s Viksit Bharat goal?

A19. Viksit Bharat is India’s goal of becoming a developed country by 2047, and Saudi Arabia expressed appreciation for India’s sustained economic growth towards this aim.

Q20. What does the future hold for Saudi-Indian relations?

A20. The expanded council and new committees set the stage for deeper cooperation across defense, tourism, economy, and global forums, contributing to shared prosperity and stability.

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