Prasanta Kumar Pradhan

Trade has been the dominant factor in India's relationship with Saudi Arabia, with the import of oil being a major component. India views Saudi Arabia as a country with which it can forge security ties in order to deal with terrorism, piracy and criminal elements. Diplomatically, it could be a gateway for India into the wider Arab and Islamic world. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has reciprocated India's initiatives relating to issues of mutual interest. Although some hurdles remain, it is time for both countries to work towards building a strong strategic partnership.

• Published: March 2013
• Strategic Analysis

Iran, Israel and Turkey have adopted a two pronged approach to deal with the Arab Spring: avoid the negative consequences of the uprisings while at the same time deriving mileage to further their interests in an uncertain neighbourhood.

• Published: September 07, 2012
• Issue Brief

The end of decades of autocratic rule in Egypt is marked by the beginning of a march towards a democratic political system and the rise to power of the Muslim Brotherhood.

• Published: August 2012
• Africa Trends

The approach of GCC countries towards the Syrian crisis has shifted from appealing for political reforms to internationalising the issue to arming the regime’s opposition.

• Published: June 21, 2012
• IDSA Comments

Strengthening defence ties and broadening defence engagement between India and Saudi Arabia was the principal objective of Antony’s visit to Riyadh.

• Published: February 21, 2012
• IDSA Comments

The Arab countries where people have successfully overthrown the dictatorial regimes now face the daunting task of moving forward with democratic processes, economic development and institution building.

• Published: December 23, 2011
• IDSA Comments

Yemen is stuck in a paradoxical and ambiguous situation. While it is widely believed that regime change is necessary, in the absence of reliable alternate leadership, the risk of chaos and instability looms large.

• Published: October 18, 2011
• Issue Brief

Though the Astana meeting reflected a change in the OIC’s approach and understanding of the issues and problems of the Islamic world, lack of concrete action would lead to a further loss of credibility for the organisation.

• Published: July 14, 2011
• IDSA Comments

The ongoing protests against undemocratic regimes in West Asia and North Africa have sent shockwaves throughout the region. This Brief analyses the protests in the Arab world and their implications for the region and India.

• Published: March 31, 2011
• Issue Brief

Saudi Arabia’s concerns about regional stability and its domestic vulnerabilities have risen to the fore amidst popular protests in the Gulf region.

• Published: March 25, 2011
• IDSA Comments