Riyadh: In an effort to counter Islamabad's strident anti-India propaganda on Kashmir, New Delhi has reached out to Saudi Arabia, days after Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan visited the kingdom on way to the United Nationa General Assembly (UNGA).
National Security Advisor Ajit Doval held one-on-one talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and discussed Kashmir, and explained New Delhi's position on it.
Crown Prince Salman expressed understanding about India's approach and actions in Jammu and Kashmir, sources said.
The one-on-one talks with the Crown Prince lasted for about two hours.
Imran had spent two days in Riyadh on way to New York and performed Umrah with his wife Bushra Bibi at Mecca. He also flew in the Prince's special plane to New York, to highlight the close ties between Riyadh and Islamabad.
During Doval's meeting with the Crown Prince, a wide range of issues was discussed on various aspects of the India-Saudi bilateral relations.
The NSA's visit aimed to strengthen the deep bonds 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 Prince Salman's vision 2030.
Doval also had a meeting with his Saudi counterpart, Musaid Al Aiban, who chairs the Council of Political and Security Affairs of Saudi Arabia. He is also Chairman of the National Cyber Security Authority.
They two sides discussed issues of national and regional security. Both sides highlighted the importance of close security ties.
NSA Doval is also expected to interact with top leaders of the United Arab Emirates.
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