Transformation of India-Saudi Arabia Bilateral Relations

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia highlights a significant transformation in bilateral ties, reflecting both countries' evolving political dynamics. Modi assumed office in 2014, followed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's (MbS) rise in 2015.

Historical Context

• Only six Indian Prime Ministerial visits to Saudi Arabia since 1947.
• Previous visits: Jawaharlal Nehru (1955), Indira Gandhi (1982), Manmohan Singh (2010).
• Modi's visits indicate a shift in foreign policy priorities, with trips in 2016, 2019, and now.

Challenges and Shifts

• India's earlier policy towards Saudi Arabia was cautious due to ideological factors and concerns over Pakistan.
• Interest in the Gulf grew due to oil price shocks and the presence of about 10 million expatriate workers.
• A shift occurred with External Affairs Minister Jaswant Singh's visit in 2000 and King Abdullah's 2006 visit to India.

Strategic Advances

Under Modi, engagement with the Gulf, especially Saudi Arabia, has accelerated, covering:

• Energy
• Technology
• Economic cooperation
• Security and connectivity

Saudi Arabia's Transformation Under MbS

Saudi Arabia, under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is undergoing significant domestic and foreign policy transformations.

Vision 2030

• Launched in 2016 to diversify the economy from oil dependence.
• Growth in tourism, technology, entertainment, and renewables.
• Projects like the partial privatisation of Saudi Aramco and Neom aim to attract foreign investment and innovation.

Social Reforms

• Easing restrictions on women (e.g., driving, public life participation).
• Expansion of entertainment options such as cinemas and concerts.
• Promotion of moderate Islam, aiming for global significance amid rising extremism.

Foreign Policy Shifts

• Proactive stance with military interventions in Yemen and a firm line on Iran.
• Flexibility shown by mending ties with Qatar, Turkey, and outreach to Iran.
• Signals of potential normalization with Israel dependent on Palestine peace progress.

Global Partnerships

• Saudi Arabia's diversification beyond US dependence.
• Strengthening relations with China, Russia, and emerging powers.
• Join the expanded BRICS group and increase outreach to Africa and Latin America.

Crown Prince MbS aims to position Saudi Arabia as a diplomatic hub, mediating Middle East and North Africa conflicts, similar to India's pragmatic Middle East policy under Modi.