India and Saudi Arabia Forge Strategic Partnership on Energy, Technology, and Climate Cooperation

New Delhi : In a significant step towards strengthening bilateral relations, India and Saudi Arabia have announced a multifaceted partnership covering key sectors such as energy, digital technology, tourism, and climate change. The agreements were finalized during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit to Riyadh, which was abruptly shortened following a tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, that claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists.

A joint statement issued on Wednesday emphasized the shared commitment of both nations to stabilize global oil markets and enhance cooperation in the energy sector. India agreed to work alongside Saudi Arabia to ensure energy security and support global market dynamics, with a particular focus on the supply of crude oil and its derivatives.

The two countries also committed to expanding cooperation in clean and green hydrogen, aiming to stimulate demand, develop transportation and storage infrastructure, and share technological expertise. Both sides underscored the need to create efficient energy supply chains and raise awareness of energy conservation across sectors including construction, industry, and transportation.

On climate change, the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement, advocating for an emissions-focused approach to climate action. India voiced strong support for Saudi Arabia’s “Saudi Green Initiative” and “Middle East Green Initiative,” aimed at combating desertification, boosting reforestation, and reducing carbon emissions across the region.

Furthering their strategic partnership, the two nations agreed to bolster collaboration in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and semiconductors. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India and Saudi Arabia’s Communications, Space and Technology Commission to enhance cooperation in digital governance and regulatory frameworks.

Tourism and cultural exchange were also high on the agenda, with both sides agreeing to promote sustainable tourism and boost people-to-people connections through media, entertainment, and sports.

On the geopolitical front, India and Saudi Arabia reiterated their support for a political solution to the crisis in Yemen. India acknowledged Saudi Arabia’s efforts in facilitating dialogue and delivering humanitarian aid, while Saudi Arabia appreciated India's humanitarian contributions to the war-torn nation.

The joint statement concluded with a reaffirmation of both countries’ dedication to ensuring maritime security and upholding freedom of navigation, in accordance with international law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

This visit marks Prime Minister Modi’s third to Saudi Arabia and follows Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's participation in the G-20 Summit held in India in 2023. It also reflects the growing depth of the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council in shaping regional and global cooperation.