Context

Recently, the 'AL - Mohed AL - Hindi' two countries' training between India and Saudi Arabia began on August 12 on the coast of Al Jubail.

Background

About the Exercise

• This is the first-ever naval exercise between both nations.
• India’s guided-missile destroyer INS Kochi will participate in the exercise.
• The joint naval exercise will show the growing defense and military cooperation between India and Saudi Arabia.
• The exercise is taking place due to rising tension in the Gulf region after the drone attack on a merchant tanker off Oman.
• It will showcase the reflection of growing cooperation between Saudi Arabia and India.

The Importance of Indian Participation in Bilateral Exercises

• It is an indication of the high level of trust and confidence among the member nations.
• It is an important means of building confidence (CBM) and an indication of the faith placed by India in another nation or group of member states.
• It is a tool for projection of a nation’s soft power i.e. culture, language, customs, beliefs, food habits and lifestyle.