What Did NSA Doval Discuss with His Saudi Counterpart?
Synopsis
In a significant meeting in Riyadh, NSA Ajit Doval and his Saudi counterpart Musaed bin Mohammed Al-Aiban engaged in vital discussions regarding bilateral cooperation and regional security matters, reaffirming their commitment to combat terrorism and enhancing legal collaboration.
Key Takeaways
Strengthened Bilateral Cooperation: Emphasis on enhancing ties between India and Saudi Arabia.
Counter Terrorism Strategies: Joint efforts to combat various forms of terrorism.
Legal and Judicial Collaboration: Focus on improving legal frameworks and cooperation.
Security Working Group: Ongoing discussions to address security challenges.
Mutual Condemnation of Terrorism: A shared stance against terrorism in all its forms.
On February 4, in Riyadh, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval engaged in discussions with his Saudi counterpart, Musaed bin Mohammed Al-Aiban, focusing on bilateral cooperation and various regional matters of mutual concern.
The Embassy of India in Riyadh shared on X, "NSA Ajit Doval had a fruitful meeting with the Saudi Minister of State, a Cabinet Member, and National Security Adviser, Musaed bin Mohammed Al-Aiban. Their discussions spanned bilateral relations and other issues of shared interest."
Doval's official visit began on Tuesday, where he was welcomed at the airport by Indian Ambassador Suhel Ajaz Khan and Saudi Arabia's Deputy Minister for Political Affairs, Saud Al-Sati.
This meeting is part of ongoing dialogues regarding security cooperation between the two nations.
Recently, India and Saudi Arabia conducted their third meeting of the Security Working Group under the Political, Consular and Security Cooperation Committee of the Strategic Partnership Council in Riyadh, assessing their current security collaboration.
The discussions also addressed ways to enhance cooperation in facing contemporary challenges related to countering terrorism, including tackling extremism and radicalization, combating the financial aspects of terrorism, preventing the misuse of technology for terrorist activities, and the connection between transnational organized crime and terrorism.
Officials from both nations explored strategies to strengthen their legal, judicial, and law enforcement cooperation, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
A statement from the MEA emphasized, "Both nations condemned terrorism in all its forms, including cross-border terrorism and the heinous terrorist attacks on civilians in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir on April 22, 2025, and near the Red Fort in New Delhi on November 10, 2025."
The meeting was co-chaired by Vinod Bahade, Joint Secretary for Counter Terrorism at the MEA, and Ahmed Al-Eissa, Director General of Legal Affairs and International Cooperation from Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior.
The next session of the Security Working Group is scheduled to take place in India at a mutually agreed date.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the importance of India and Saudi Arabia's collaboration in addressing security challenges. The ongoing dialogues showcase their commitment to mutual interests and the stability of the region, which is crucial for both nations and their allies.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the primary focus of the meeting between NSA Doval and the Saudi counterpart?
The primary focus was on discussing bilateral cooperation and regional issues of mutual interest.
When did NSA Doval's official visit to Riyadh begin?
NSA Doval's official visit to Riyadh began on February 3.
What significant discussions were held regarding terrorism?
Officials discussed strategies to combat terrorism, including countering extremism, radicalization, and financial support for terrorist activities.
What future meetings are planned following this dialogue?
The next meeting of the Security Working Group is planned to take place in India at a mutually convenient time.
Who co-chaired the meeting?
The meeting was co-chaired by Vinod Bahade from the MEA and Ahmed Al-Eissa from Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior.
