Saudi Arabia and India have agreed to expand their Strategic Partnership Council to include four ministerial committees, marking a significant deepening of bilateral relations [1][2]. The decision, announced on April 23, 2025, comes as part of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia [3].

The expansion adds two new committees to the existing council structure: one focused on defense cooperation and another on tourism and cultural collaboration [1][2]. This move reflects the growing strategic ties between the two nations and their commitment to enhancing cooperation across various sectors.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman hosted Prime Minister Modi for his third visit to the Kingdom [4]. The visit follows the Crown Prince's historic trip to India in September 2023, where he participated in the G20 Summit and co-chaired the first meeting of the Saudi-Indian Strategic Partnership Council [2].

During the talks, both countries emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation and coordination in international organizations and forums, including the G20 and the International Monetary Fund and World Bank [1][3]. This alignment aims to support efforts in addressing challenges facing the global economy.

The joint statement released at the conclusion of the visit highlighted several key areas of cooperation:

Defense collaboration through a new ministerial committee [1][2] Enhanced cooperation in tourism and culture [1][2] Coordination in international forums to address global economic challenges [3][5] Continued partnership in energy, with plans for two new oil refineries in India [1]

This expansion of the Strategic Partnership Council underscores the growing importance of Saudi-Indian relations in regional and global affairs. As both nations continue to strengthen their ties, the impact of their cooperation is likely to be felt across various sectors, from defense and energy to culture and tourism.