Understanding India-Saudi Arabia Relations in 2023

Historical Background of India-Saudi Relations

India and Saudi Arabia have maintained formal diplomatic relations since 1947. However, these ties were underutilised for many years, with only a few high-level visits occurring. Notable visits include those by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1955, Indira Gandhi in 1982, and Manmohan Singh in 2010. The relationship began to gain significant momentum in the 21st century, particularly following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visits in 2016 and 2019, with another visit planned for 2023.

Importance of Saudi Arabia for India Today

Saudi Arabia holds a crucial role in India’s strategic calculations due to several factors:

• Energy Security: It is a major supplier of crude oil to India.
• Indian Diaspora: Over 2 million Indians reside and work in Saudi Arabia, making remittances an essential economic link.
• Economic Investment: Saudi Arabia is actively interested in investing in India’s infrastructure and energy sectors.
• Counterterrorism Cooperation: Both nations share concerns over extremism and are looking for stronger coordination.

The Role of Mohammed bin Salman (MbS)

Mohammed bin Salman, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, has been pivotal in shaping bilateral ties through:

• Implementing major economic and governance reforms under the Vision 2030 initiative.
• Liberalising society, including lifting restrictions on women and promoting youth engagement.
• Modernising foreign policy, which has opened avenues for India's strategic and economic outreach.

India's Response to Changes in Saudi Arabia

India has adapted to these transformative changes by:

• Deepening diplomatic engagement through more frequent high-level visits.
• Focusing on long-term strategic goals rather than solely on immediate energy needs.
• Supporting Saudi Arabia’s moderate Islam initiative as a stabilising force in the region.

Geopolitical Shifts Impacting the Relationship

• Pakistan Factor: Historically, Saudi Arabia maintained closer security ties with Pakistan. However, India’s proactive diplomacy is shifting this focus.
• China and the US: Both India and Saudi Arabia balance their relations with these powers, allowing for enhanced bilateral cooperation.
• Israel Ties: Saudi Arabia’s increasing openness to engage with Israel aligns with India’s balanced approach in West Asia, contingent on the two-state solution.

Sectors of Increased Cooperation

• Energy and Renewables
• Space and Technology
• Investment and Infrastructure
• Defence and Maritime Security
• Education and Youth Engagement

Significance of India’s New Role in West Asia

India is evolving beyond being merely an oil customer or labour exporter. It is emerging as:

• A strategic partner
• A destination for technology and investment
• A bridge between Asia and the Gulf

This transformation signifies a shift from reactive diplomacy to a more proactive and pragmatic foreign policy. “Diplomacy is not about talking. It is about listening, understanding, and acting with foresight and humility.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What are the key factors contributing to India-Saudi relations?
Answer: Key factors include energy security, the Indian diaspora in Saudi Arabia, economic investment opportunities, and counterterrorism cooperation between the two nations.

Q2. How has Mohammed bin Salman influenced India-Saudi ties?
Answer: MbS has initiated significant reforms under Vision 2030, promoting societal liberalisation and modernising foreign policy, enhancing cooperation with India.

Q3. What sectors are seeing increased cooperation between India and Saudi Arabia?
Answer: Increased cooperation is evident in energy, space technology, infrastructure investment, defence, and education sectors.

Q4. How do geopolitical shifts affect India-Saudi relations?
Answer: Geopolitical shifts, including relations with Pakistan, China, and Israel, play a crucial role in redefining the strategic partnership between India and Saudi Arabia.

Q5. What is the significance of India's role in West Asia?
Answer: India is transitioning into a strategic partner and investment destination, moving away from being just an oil customer, thus enhancing its geopolitical influence in the region.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: When did India and Saudi Arabia establish formal diplomatic relations?
A) 1940
B) 1947
C) 1955
D) 1982
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: What initiative has Mohammed bin Salman introduced in Saudi Arabia?
A) Vision 2020
B) Vision 2030
C) Vision 2040
D) Vision 2050
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: How many Indians live in Saudi Arabia?
A) 1 million
B) 2 million
C) 3 million
D) 4 million
Correct Answer: B