Setback For Pakistan As Saudi Arabia 'Endorses' India's Move On Kashmir: Reports

Saudi Arabia has reportedly expressed understanding about India's approach and actions in Jammu and Kashmir. The Saudi Arabia’s stance on the issue was conveyed to India in a two-hour meeting between National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman in Riyadh on Wednesday, reported news agency ANI.

"The issue of Jammu and Kashmir also figured in the discussion which Saudi crown Prince expressed understanding about India's approach and actions in Jammu and Kashmir," ANI quoted sources as saying.

India abrogated Article 370 of the Constitution on August 5 that gave a special status to Jammu and Kashmir, and bifurcated the state into two new Union Territories- Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh.

The stand taken by Saudia Arabia is seen as a major blow for Pakistan as Islamabad sees Riyadh as one of its major supporters.

During the meeting, a host of issues touching various aspects of the bilateral ties were discussed.

The visit will further strengthen the deep ties between the two countries and help identify specific areas of cooperation at a time when Saudi Arabia is looking to diversify its economy in line with MBS’ vision 2030.

This is an important visit that highlights the “regular and ongoing close consultations at the highest levels” on issues of mutual interest and importance.        

The visit came days after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan travelled to Saudi Arabia to seek support for its attempt to internationalise India’s Kashmir move as well. Then, there is also the devastating drone attack on Aramco oil installations in Saudi Arabia last month that has flared tensions in the region and led to a sharp decline in OPEC’s oil production.

“This wasn’t a visit driven by a single agenda,” the official quoted above said. Officials said a wide range of issues were discussed on various aspects of bilateral relations at Wednesday’s meeting.