National Security Adviser Ajit Doval held high-level talks in Riyadh as India stepped up engagement with Saudi Arabia on security and energy issues amid rising tensions in West Asia. According to the AIR report, Doval arrived in the Saudi capital on April 19 for discussions focused on strengthening security cooperation, ensuring energy stability and reviewing regional developments linked to the Iran conflict.
He was received at King Khalid International Airport by India’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Suhel Ajaz Khan, and Saudi Deputy Minister for Political Affairs Saud Al Sati. During the visit, Doval met Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, and Saudi National Security Adviser Dr. Musaed bin Mohammed Al Aiban.
The report said Doval’s meeting with Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman focused on enhancing cooperation in the energy sector and supporting the stability of global supplies. Both sides discussed ways to strengthen energy security and maintain reliable oil flows at a time of regional uncertainty.
The visit comes against the backdrop of heightened concern over global supply chains following the 2026 Iran conflict. AIR said earlier U.S.-Israeli strikes and a subsequent fragile ceasefire had raised fears of disruption to oil and gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global energy markets. India, one of the world’s largest crude importers, depends significantly on Saudi energy supplies, making such consultations strategically important.
Security cooperation also figured prominently in the discussions. The report said both sides reviewed counterterrorism coordination and intelligence sharing, while also exchanging views on Gaza and broader efforts to de-escalate tensions across West Asia. The meetings reflected the growing depth of India-Saudi strategic ties at a time of continued regional volatility.
Reference:
https://www.newsonair.gov.in/nsa-ajit-doval-in-riyadh-for-security-and-energy-talks-amid-iran-tensions/
https://www.reuters.com/markets/commodities/opening-hormuz-is-easy-part-restoring-oil-flows-isnt-2026-04-20/
You may also like
-
India, Germany Sign Defence Cooperation Roadmap During Rajnath Singh’s Berlin Talks
-
India and UK Deepen Defence Ties During CDS General Anil Chauhan’s Historic Visit
-
India Calls for Global Financial Reform and UNSC Restructuring to Empower Developing Nations
-
Rajnath Singh Urges Deeper India–Germany Defence Industry Collaboration
-
India–Republic of Korea Partnership in Maritime Sector