Zelenskiy said the framework deal, signed ahead of talks with Mohammed bin Salman, establishes a basis for future contracts, joint technological development and investment between the two countries.

“We are ready to share our expertise and systems with Saudi Arabia and to work together to strengthen the protection of lives,” Zelenskiy said on Telegram, adding that Saudi capabilities were also of interest to Ukraine.

The visit comes as Kyiv reassesses its external support network in the fifth year of its war with Russia. A report by the Washington Post said the United States is weighing redirecting weapons supplies intended for Ukraine to the Middle East, where tensions linked to a conflict with Iran are straining American stockpiles.

Zelenskiy’s outreach to Gulf partners signals an effort to diversify defence cooperation and secure alternative funding and technology flows as geopolitical priorities shift.

Earlier this month, Ukraine sent more than 220 military and security experts to several Middle Eastern countries to advise on countering drone attacks targeting critical infrastructure.

According to video released by Zelenskiy’s office, the delegation included air defence specialists and officials from Ukraine’s SBU security service.

The group conducted workshops for Saudi officials, reported to the Saudi General Staff and is preparing to share operational experience in air defence.

Zelenskiy said Ukraine expects financial compensation and access to technology in exchange for providing such assistance.Drones have become a central feature of the battlefield in Ukraine’s war with Russia, prompting Kyiv to accelerate domestic production and innovation to offset Moscow’s manpower advantage.

Zelenskiy told Reuters this week that, with sufficient financing, Ukraine could produce up to 2,000 drone interceptors per day, underscoring the scale of its defence manufacturing ambitions.

The agreement with Saudi Arabia reflects a convergence of interests as Middle Eastern states seek to strengthen air defence capabilities against drone threats, while Ukraine looks to leverage its battlefield experience for strategic and economic gains.

The visit aims to highlight the growing economic, defence, and strategic cooperation between Washington and Riyadh, marking a shift from past tensions rooted in human rights debates and regional conflicts.

President Donald Trump hosted the crown prince at the White House a day earlier, offering a warm reception that underscored longstanding U.S.–Saudi ties and the administration’s focus on strengthening bilateral engagement.

During the meeting, Trump reaffirmed the importance of security cooperation, energy collaboration, and regional stability, framing the relationship as essential for both countries amid shifting global dynamics.

The visit comes at a time when the Saudi leader is working to present his country as a major global investor, a partner in regional security, and an influential player in shaping new economic pathways across the Middle East and beyond.

This approach has gradually softened political attitudes in Washington, where previous years were marked by sharper criticism of Riyadh’s policies and actions.

Several lawmakers who were once outspoken critics appear more reserved now, reflecting larger geopolitical considerations, evolving alliances, and a desire for stable cooperation in areas such as defence, trade, and counterterrorism.

Even so, the crown prince’s meetings on Capitol Hill are expected to be quieter and more controlled, with limited public appearances and no formal press engagements planned by congressional leadership.

During his time in Washington, the crown prince is also engaging in high-level conversations with officials, strategists, and business leaders at an investment-focused conference that highlights Saudi Arabia’s diversification projects.

The initiative is tied to efforts under Saudi Vision 2030, a transformation plan aimed at modernizing the economy and expanding global partnerships, including with U.S. companies.

Despite the warmer tone, pockets of criticism remain among some lawmakers who continue to scrutinize issues related to human rights, governance concerns, and regional conflict dynamics.

These views, while less dominant than before, still influence parts of the political landscape, especially among members who have followed developments closely over the last decade.

The atmosphere stands in stark contrast to reactions from several years ago, when members of Congress frequently challenged Riyadh’s actions and called for accountability across different areas of concern.

At that time, the political conversation was intensified by debate over Saudi Arabia’s involvement in Yemen and broader discussions on civilian protection, military support, and humanitarian outcomes.

Recent shifts, however, have placed greater emphasis on shared strategic interests, with many policymakers acknowledging the role the Kingdom plays in energy markets, maritime security, and regional diplomatic efforts.

This changing focus has contributed to a more pragmatic approach in Washington, where policymakers weigh both the benefits and complexities of the partnership.

Still, some lawmakers voiced disappointment over the public reception given to the crown prince, arguing that the United States should balance strategic alignment with firm advocacy for American values.

They maintain that long-term partnerships depend not only on shared interests but also on transparency, rule of law, and commitment to peaceful political development.

The crown prince’s current visit is expected to set the tone for future dialogue between the two countries as evolving global pressures push Washington and Riyadh to reassess their coordination.

Both sides appear intent on reinforcing their strategic framework while acknowledging areas where perspectives differ and conversation remains necessary.

As meetings progress, analysts note that the United States and Saudi Arabia are navigating a complex moment in global politics, with energy markets shifting, regional conflicts evolving, and major powers recalibrating their roles.

The crown prince’s engagements in Washington indicate a desire to align long-term planning with new political realities, signaling the continued importance of the partnership despite past disagreements.

The visit ultimately highlights a broader trend in which countries with deep historical ties are working through periods of tension to maintain cooperation in an increasingly unpredictable global environment.

For the United States and Saudi Arabia, the coming months may define how closely their strategic priorities align and how both sides manage the balance of interests, expectations, and reforms.

In a ceremonious welcome, PM Modi was greeted with a 21-gun salute upon arrival. As his plane entered Saudi airspace, it was escorted by F15 fighter jets in a special gesture of respect and camaraderie. At the airport, the Prime Minister interacted warmly with Saudi officials and dignitaries.

A heartwarming cultural moment took place when Saudi singer Hashim Abbas passionately performed the Indian patriotic song ‘Ae Watan’ in PM Modi’s honor. “When I started singing, my friends told me that one day I would sing in front of PM Modi. I didn’t believe them… I love India. It is a great country led by the great leader, PM Narendra Modi,” Abbas told PTI.

Adding to the celebratory spirit, hundreds of members of the Indian diaspora in Saudi Arabia gathered to welcome the Prime Minister. They greeted him with chants of “Modi, Modi” and showcased traditional cultural performances. Sharing photos from the event on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and said the visit would “strengthen the friendship between India and Saudi Arabia.”

The Prime Minister is set to co-chair the second meeting of the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council alongside Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Discussions will focus on enhancing cooperation in key sectors including defence, trade, investment, energy, and people-to-people ties.

Before departing from India, PM Modi emphasized the importance of India’s evolving relationship with Saudi Arabia. “India deeply values its long and historic ties with Saudi Arabia that have acquired strategic depth and momentum in recent years,” he said. “We have shared interest and commitment to promote regional peace, prosperity, security and stability.”

In an interview with Arab News ahead of the visit, PM Modi described Saudi Arabia as “one of India’s most valued partners — a maritime neighbour, a trusted friend and a strategic ally.”

This high-profile visit follows King Salman’s attendance at the G20 Summit in New Delhi last September, during which he co-chaired the first meeting of the Strategic Partnership Council. Officials from both countries hope this visit will further solidify bilateral ties and explore new avenues for cooperation.

Choosing Jeddah wasn’t random—it’s a strategic signal.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day trip to Saudi Arabia in April 2025 is more than just a diplomatic formality—it’s a pivotal moment in India’s West Asia strategy. What makes it even more significant is that Modi is the first Indian Prime Minister in over 40 years to visit Jeddah, the commercial heart of Saudi Arabia and a key gateway to Islam’s holiest cities. This move is loaded with both symbolic and strategic meaning, reflecting how India is reshaping its foreign policy priorities and deepening its bond with a critical regional partner.

Modi’s earlier visits to Saudi Arabia—in 2016 and 2019—took him to Riyadh, the political capital. But this time, the focus is on Jeddah. This city isn’t just an economic hub; it’s deeply tied to the spiritual journeys of millions of Muslims, including the vast number of Indian pilgrims who pass through its port on their way to Mecca and Medina. The last time an Indian PM visited Jeddah was Indira Gandhi in 1982, so Modi’s presence there ends a 43-year gap and sends a clear message: India is engaging with Saudi Arabia not just diplomatically, but culturally and historically too.

Why Jeddah?

Choosing Jeddah wasn’t random—it’s a strategic signal. Located along the Red Sea, Jeddah is crucial to Saudi Arabia’s trade and plays a key role in the Kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030 economic diversification plan. By choosing to visit this city, Modi is aligning India’s long-term goals with Saudi Arabia’s, making it clear that India wants to be more than a customer for oil—it wants to be a partner in the Kingdom’s transformation.

Strategic Partnership Council: Moving from Talk to Action

A major highlight of this visit is the third meeting of the India-Saudi Strategic Partnership Council (SPC), co-chaired by Modi and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS). Since it was launched in 2019, the SPC has helped turn friendly ties into structured cooperation, operating across two main tracks: political-security-cultural and economy-investment.

This isn’t just about reviewing progress—it’s about launching new initiatives. Key areas on the agenda include green hydrogen, supply chains for critical minerals, defence manufacturing, and digital infrastructure. Both India and Saudi Arabia are economic powerhouses in the Global South and are members of the G20. Their partnership is increasingly relevant not just for regional affairs but on the world stage.

Defence Relations: No Longer Just for Show

One of the most striking shifts in India-Saudi relations is happening in the defence sector. What used to be limited to polite visits and symbolic gestures has transformed into meaningful military cooperation.

Take 2024, for example. That’s when the two countries held their first joint land military exercise, Sada Tanseeq, in Rajasthan. That same year, they also conducted a second edition of the naval drill, Al Mohed Al Hindi. Even more notable, in February 2024, India and Saudi Arabia signed their first-ever defence contract—a $225 million deal for artillery shells, involving India’s state-run Munitions India Limited (MIL). This deal included the export of advanced 155mm towed artillery guns.

These developments fit well with the broader vision on both sides. India’s “Make in India” push complements Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which includes reducing dependency on Western arms suppliers by building up local defence industries. The partnership now extends beyond just equipment—it includes training, exchanges between military colleges, and high-level defence talks. In a region marked by tension and instability, especially around the Red Sea and Persian Gulf, this evolving defence cooperation marks India as a serious and steady strategic partner.

Energy: From Oil to Green Hydrogen

Energy is still the bedrock of India-Saudi ties, but the way both countries are approaching it is changing. While oil trade continues as a major pillar, there’s a big push toward green energy, especially green hydrogen.

During this visit, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on green hydrogen is expected. This makes perfect sense—Saudi Arabia has vast solar energy potential, while India brings technological expertise and policy support for renewables. Together, they can lead the charge in clean energy innovation.

This collaboration isn’t just about national interests. It also helps both nations contribute to global climate action goals and cushions them against the volatility of traditional energy markets, especially with growing geopolitical tensions affecting global supply.

The Indian Community: A Vital Human Link

One of the strongest and most human dimensions of India-Saudi relations is the Indian diaspora. About 2.7 million Indians live and work in Saudi Arabia, making it one of the largest overseas Indian communities anywhere in the world. They’re not just workers—they’re a vital part of Saudi society and contribute significantly to India through remittances.

Modi plans to visit a Jeddah factory that employs Indian workers—a gesture that goes beyond symbolism. It’s a way of recognizing the role of Indians in building Saudi Arabia’s economy and underlining India’s commitment to its citizens abroad.

But there are also tough conversations to be had. Nearly a quarter of all Indian prisoners abroad are in Saudi Arabia. Although some agreements exist for prisoner transfers, very few have actually been repatriated. Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed this issue would be “high on the agenda.” Making progress here could boost Modi’s domestic image and showcase a foreign policy that values human dignity alongside strategic interests.

A Region in Flux

Modi’s visit is happening against a backdrop of regional unrest. The Israel-Palestine conflict remains unresolved and increasingly volatile. Meanwhile, Houthi attacks in the Red Sea are putting global shipping routes at risk. These developments concern both India and Saudi Arabia—not only as regional stakeholders but as key players in global trade and energy supply chains.

Both Modi and MBS have built relationships with powerful global figures—U.S. President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky among them. This ability to maintain ties across a polarized international arena gives their partnership a unique edge, especially as the Global South looks for new leadership on issues like climate finance, economic justice, and peacebuilding.

The Bigger Gulf Picture: Revisiting the FTA

Another topic expected to come up is the long-discussed India-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Free Trade Agreement. The GCC—comprising Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman—is a vital trade and energy region for India. An FTA would mean lower tariffs, better access to markets, and smoother labour mobility.

Negotiating such a deal is crucial as global trade dynamics shift post-pandemic and amid ongoing global tensions. For India, it’s about diversifying economic relationships and securing its trade routes—especially through a region where millions of Indians live and work.

More Than Optics

In essence, PM Modi’s 2025 Saudi Arabia visit isn’t just another stop on the diplomatic calendar. It’s a strategic recalibration that touches nearly every major aspect of India’s global ambitions—security, energy, trade, and people-to-people ties.

It signals that India and Saudi Arabia are stepping into a more mature, multifaceted relationship. What once revolved around oil and labor is now about mutual growth, resilience, and global impact. As the world becomes more unpredictable, partnerships like this—rooted in shared goals and diversified interests—could help shape a more stable and balanced international order.