Strengthening Ties: Indias New Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Highlights Strategic Relations

New Delhi, August 11: India’s newly appointed ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Vipul, emphasized the importance of maintaining strong ties between India and Saudi Arabia amid current regional challenges. He noted that the two nations share a “historic and special relationship” and expressed confidence that their partnership will reach new heights in the coming years.

In an interview with Arab News, Vipul shared his pride and honor in being entrusted with the responsibility of serving in Saudi Arabia. He was appointed as India’s ambassador on June 2 by the Ministry of External Affairs and will soon take up his new role, currently serving as the ambassador to Qatar.

Discussing India-Saudi Arabia relations, he stated, “Our relationship is historic, special, and certainly strategic.” He highlighted that the interests of both countries align in many areas, making it crucial for them to strengthen their strategic ties in the current context.

“I can only see our relationship advancing and reaching new heights in the coming years. Over the past decade, our ties have significantly strengthened,” he added.

The diplomat mentioned that there is a strategic partnership between India and Saudi Arabia, with robust cooperation across various sectors in recent years. He pointed out that there is continuous political engagement between the two nations, including regular meetings under the ‘Strategic Partnership Council,’ which features ministerial discussions.

He remarked that the current situation in West Asia is a “concern for the entire world,” making it essential for India and Saudi Arabia to stay connected during these times.

When asked about the potential for both countries to collaborate in restoring stability in West Asia, he affirmed that there is ongoing communication between the leaders of both nations. “Stability in the region is crucial, and development is India’s top priority,” he stated.

On March 28, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a phone conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, where they discussed the ongoing conflicts in West Asia. Modi also expressed gratitude for the support extended to the Indian community residing in Saudi Arabia.

Following their discussion, Prime Minister Modi tweeted, “I spoke with Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia. We discussed the ongoing conflicts in West Asia. I reiterated India’s condemnation of the attacks on regional energy infrastructure.”

He added, “We agreed on the importance of ensuring freedom of navigation in maritime routes and keeping shipping lines secure and open. I also thanked him for the continued support for the welfare of the Indian community in Saudi Arabia.”

This conversation took place during a time of ongoing conflict in West Asia, which escalated after U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran on February 28. Reports indicated that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several top military officials were killed in these strikes. In retaliation, Iran launched drone and missile attacks targeting U.S. and Israeli positions, regional capitals, and allied forces in West Asia.