India has responded firmly yet diplomatically to the recently signed Saudi-Pakistan Defence Pact, highlighting that its strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia is built on βmutual interests and sensitivities.β
Indiaβs Position on the Pact
The announcement of a defence agreement between Riyadh and Islamabad stirred discussions across South Asia. India, however, emphasized that its relations with Saudi Arabia go well beyond security concerns, encompassing trade, investment, energy, culture, and people-to-people ties.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) noted that New Delhi and Riyadh share a βcomprehensive strategic partnershipβ, and recent years have seen close cooperation in energy security, counterterrorism, and economic growth.
Strategic Importance of Saudi Arabia for India
Saudi Arabia is one of Indiaβs largest suppliers of crude oil and also hosts a significant Indian diaspora contributing to both economies. Over the last decade, bilateral trade has grown steadily, and both sides have invested in infrastructure, renewable energy, and digital technology projects.
India has also deepened its defence ties with Riyadh in recent years, holding joint military exercises and dialogues. Analysts suggest that while Pakistan may benefit from short-term military collaboration with Saudi Arabia, Indiaβs broad-based engagement with Riyadh ensures long-term stability in relations.
Regional Geopolitical Context
The pact between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan comes at a time when global power dynamics are shifting, especially in the Middle East and South Asia. Observers believe Riyadh is seeking to balance its ties with multiple countries while securing its defence requirements.
India, on the other hand, continues to strengthen relations not only with Saudi Arabia but also with other Gulf nations such as the UAE, Oman, and Qatar. This diversified diplomacy helps New Delhi safeguard its energy supplies and expand its influence in the region.
What Lies Ahead
Experts predict that India will remain watchful but pragmatic about the Saudi-Pakistan pact. While Islamabad may gain symbolic support, New Delhiβs long-standing trust with Riyadh across multiple sectors is likely to outweigh short-term defence deals.
For India, maintaining its momentum in economic cooperation, cultural exchanges, and energy security with Saudi Arabia will remain a key foreign policy priority.
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