In a powerful display of diplomatic unity, a multi-party Indian delegation led by BJP MP Baijayant Panda engaged with Saudi Arabian counterparts on Wednesday (local time), underscoring India and Saudi Arabia’s shared resolve against terrorism — particularly cross-border terrorism sponsored by Pakistan.
Joint Resolve Against Terrorism
Speaking to media, Baijayant Panda said that the two nations were on the “same page” in their condemnation of terrorism. He emphasized the significance of the joint statement issued during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Saudi Arabia, which followed the Pahalgam terror attack.
“Saudi Arabia has taken a principled stand against terrorism. Their past experience with extremist violence aligns with ours. This growing closeness is critical in the global fight against terrorism,” Panda stated.
Support for Ghulam Nabi Azad Amid Health Scare
The delegation’s efforts were slightly marred by the hospitalization of former J&K Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad during their earlier stop in Kuwait. Panda praised Azad’s “stellar work” in two countries before illness struck, confirming his return to India after necessary medical procedures.
“He spoke up very strongly for India, and we will deeply miss his presence in Saudi Arabia and Algeria,” Panda added.
Strong Message to Pakistan Echoed by Delegation
BJP MP Nishikant Dubey said the delegation conveyed India’s unambiguous stance to Saudi authorities:
“If Pakistan sponsors any terror attack again, India will retaliate with full force. We’ve tried diplomacy, but now they must dismantle their terror infrastructure,” said Dubey, following interactions with Saudi think tanks and foreign policy experts.
Engagements with Saudi Civil Society
The delegation’s engagements in Saudi Arabia included interactions with civil society, government officials, think tanks, business leaders, and media representatives, strengthening mutual understanding on terrorism, economic collaboration, and regional stability.
Operation Sindoor: The Context
The diplomatic initiative follows Operation Sindoor, India’s retaliatory military campaign launched on May 7 in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 civilian lives.
The Indian Army neutralized over 100 terrorists across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir, targeting groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen.
Delegation Composition Reflects Bipartisan Unity
The all-party delegation includes:
- BJP MPs: Nishikant Dubey, Phangnon Konyak, Rekha Sharma, Satnam Singh Sandhu
- AIMIM MP: Asaduddin Owaisi
- Former Diplomat: Harsh Vardhan Shringla
- Former J&K CM: Ghulam Nabi Azad (initial leg)
The visit represents India’s growing strategic engagement with Gulf nations and highlights the bipartisan diplomatic consensus on fighting terrorism — a critical component of India’s post-Operation Sindoor narrative on the world stage.