The changing landscape of global diplomacy tends to form unusual alliances, and the bond between Saudi Arabia and India best illustrates this trend. Traditionally, Saudi Arabia had been allied with Pakistan through religious and cultural affinities. Yet Saudi Arabia's role in the conflict over Kashmir has emerged as the key driver to consolidate its relationships with India and leave Pakistan facing a diplomatic crisis.
Over the past few years, Saudi Arabia's stance on Kashmir has also seen a dramatic change. Contrary to the past, when the Kingdom used to reflect the views of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in favor of Pakistan's interests in Kashmir, Riyadh has taken a more subtle line. This shift in policy is primarily due to India's increasing economic and strategic weight on the international scene.
India's economic growth, along with its aspiration to become a leading player in global geopolitics, has rendered it a desirable partner for Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom, as part of its Vision 2030 strategy, seeks to diversify its economy and minimize its reliance on oil exports. India, with its huge market and technological capabilities, presents Saudi Arabia with a special chance to accomplish these objectives.
This growth in Saudi-Indian relations is further evident in their growing bilateral trade and strategic collaborations. Saudi Arabia has become one of India's key trade partners, with the two nations signing multiple agreements in energy, defense, and infrastructure development. These agreements serve not only to emphasize the increased confidence between the two nations but also to indicate their mutual interests in regional and international matters.
Pakistan, meanwhile, is becoming more isolated in its approach to Kashmir. The nation's long-time allies, such as Saudi Arabia, are reconsidering their friendship with Islamabad amid shifting global geopolitics. The failure of Pakistan to receive substantial international backing on the Kashmir front has highlighted the shortcomings of its diplomacy.
The change of heart from Saudi Arabia towards India and Kashmir is a diplomatic blow for Pakistan. For decades, Pakistan has tried to internationalize the Kashmir conflict, garnering support from Muslim nations and other allies. But the Kingdom's sudden hospitality towards India has left Pakistan with a diplomatic vacuum, compelling Islamabad to re-examine its relations with other nations.
In summary, the evolving nature of global diplomacy has witnessed a dramatic change in Saudi Arabia's approach to the Kashmir conflict. The Kingdom's increasing bilateral ties with India, based on economic and strategic interests, have established it as a major regional player. While Pakistan struggles to seek alternative allies and reinstate its diplomatic mission, Saudi Arabia's friendship with India is set to grow stronger, remodeling the politics of the region.