RIYADH: Saudi Arabia and India have agreed to cooperate in several fields, including defense industries, and exploring joint projects in refineries and petrochemicals, according to a joint statement issued on Wednesday. 

The two countries agreed to boost cooperation in the energy sector, including in the supplies of crude and liquefied petroleum gas, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The statement, which was released after a short visit to the Kingdom by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasizes their shared stances on several issues. 

They agreed on the importance of enhancing cooperation and coordination between the two countries in international organizations and forums, including the G20, the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, to support efforts to address the challenges facing the global economy.

They also welcomed the expansion of the Saudi-Indian Strategic Partnership Council to four ministerial committees. 

The statement also said the Saudi and Indian leaders shared their views on several regional issues, including Yemen. 

The two sides affirmed their full support for international and regional efforts at reaching a comprehensive political solution to the crisis in Yemen. The Indian side appreciated the Kingdom’s efforts and initiatives to encourage dialogue and reconciliation among the Yemeni parties.

The Indian side also expressed its appreciation to the Kingdom for its continued care of 2.7 million Indian citizens living in the Kingdom, which reflects the strong ties between the two peoples.