How are India and Saudi Arabia Uniting Against Terrorism?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- India's zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism.
- Strengthening India-Saudi Arabia security cooperation.
- In-depth discussions on Operation Sindoor.
- Commitment to counter cross-border terrorism.
- Collaborative efforts in security education.
Riyadh, May 29 (NationPress) A delegation from India, comprising all-party members and headed by BJP MP Baijayant Jay Panda, articulated India's unwavering commitment to combatting terrorism through a zero-tolerance posture and the 'new normal policy', particularly following Operation Sindoor. This discussion took place at the Gulf Research Centre, a renowned think-tank in Saudi Arabia known for its global affairs expertise.
The delegation was received by Chairman Abdulaziz Sager, facilitating a candid and fruitful dialogue. The talks centered on fostering a robust India-Saudi Arabia alliance across various sectors, notably in security and defense cooperation.
“India and Saudi Arabia are strengthening ties in security, defense, and global matters, united by a common commitment to address terrorism. Our delegation had a productive dialogue at the Gulf Research Centre with Chairman Abdulaziz Sager, where we discussed India's zero-tolerance approach and the need to enhance our partnership,” Panda shared on X.
Subsequently, the delegation engaged with President Abdulmajeed Albanyan of the Naif Arab University for Security Sciences in Riyadh, expressing strong concerns regarding cross-border terrorism and reiterating India's firm stance of zero tolerance.
“By fortifying security partnerships and promoting counter-terrorism initiatives, the India-Saudi alliance is becoming increasingly solid. Along with my colleagues, I visited Naif Arab University for meaningful discussions about India’s resolute approach to terrorism and collaborative opportunities in security education,” Panda noted on X.
The delegation also interacted with Saudi Civil Society, including notable figures from government, think-tanks, business, and media, emphasizing India’s steadfast position on terrorism, Operation Sindoor, and the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership.
Members of the delegation included BJP MPs Nishikant Dubey, Phangnon Konyak, Rekha Sharma, Asaduddin Owaisi, and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad, among others.
Satnam Singh Sandhu stressed that both nations are united in their efforts to enhance bilateral relations and foster a secure and peaceful regional environment.
“Our all-party delegation, led by Baijayant Jay Panda, engaged with key representatives from Saudi Arabia’s government, civil society, think-tanks, businesses, and media. We conveyed India’s strong opposition to terrorism while highlighting Operation Sindoor, a testament to India’s humanitarian leadership. Together, India and Saudi Arabia are committed to strengthening ties and promoting peace, security, and prosperity in the region,” Sandhu stated on X.
On Wednesday, the delegation had an in-depth discussion with Adel Bin Ahmed al-Jubeir, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's assertion that “this is not the era of war, nor is it the era of terrorism.” The delegates reaffirmed India’s zero tolerance policy towards terrorism and appreciated the Saudi leadership’s condemnation of the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack.
They highlighted the necessity for coordinated action against terrorism, dismantling terrorist infrastructures, denying safe havens, and cutting off financing and political support for terrorist groups, underlining India's new normal approach to terrorism.
“We met with Mishaal Al-Sulami, Deputy Speaker of the Shura Council, who hosted our delegation for lunch. We expressed gratitude for Saudi Arabia’s strong condemnation of the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam. India remains steadfast and united in its fight against terrorism, emphasizing that no act of terrorism can be justified,” stated the Indian Embassy in Riyadh.
“The discussions included a meeting with Mushabab bin Ayed Al-Qahtani, Director General of the Prince Saud Al-Faisal Institute for Diplomatic Studies, centering on India’s counter-terrorism strategies. Throughout these meetings, the Indian delegation emphasized the strong support received from Saudi Arabia regarding counter-terrorism issues, pledging to cooperate further in deradicalization and combating extremism,” the statement added.
The Indian Embassy also organized a dinner meeting with notable members of the Saudi civil society, providing an additional platform for discussions on counter-terrorism and broader topics related to the India-Saudi partnership.