The Saudi Arabian cabinet has recently given its nod to an agreement between the country’s intelligence agency and India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) to collaborate and combat terrorism and its financing. This agreement marks a significant step towards expanding the strategic ties between the two countries.
RAW is expected to benefit greatly from this agreement, as it will receive crucial assistance in its counter-terrorism efforts. Saudi Arabia has emerged as one of India’s key counter-terrorism partners in the Arab world, alongside other nations such as the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Syria, Egypt, Morocco, and Iraq.
Riyadh has been lending its support to India in cracking down on extremists. It is noteworthy that despite Pakistan’s pressure, Saudi Arabia has refrained from getting involved in the Kashmir issue. With this agreement, Saudi Arabia is poised to become India’s most significant partner in the Gulf countries in the fight against terrorism.
Growing Defense and Security Partnership between India and Saudi Arabia
The India-Saudi defense and security partnership has been on a growth trajectory in recent times. Last year, several high-level bilateral visits and meetings were held, including the first official visit to India by Lt. Gen. Fahd bin Abdullah Mohammed Al-Mutair, Commander of the Royal Saudi Land Forces, in February. In July, the fifth meeting of the Indian-Saudi Joint Committee on Defense Cooperation took place in New Delhi. Saudi Arabia has expressed a keen interest in purchasing defense items from India.
The Saudi Gazette has provided official information about this agreement. As per the Gazette, the country’s cabinet, presided over by King Salman, has approved the agreement. The meeting took place recently at Al Salam Palace.
Conclusion
The Saudi Arabia-India intelligence cooperation agreement marks a significant milestone in their growing defense and security partnership. Riyadh’s support in cracking down on extremists and terrorism financing will strengthen India’s counter-terrorism efforts. This move underscores the importance of strategic ties between the two countries and sets the stage for further collaboration in areas of mutual interest.
