India and Saudi Arabia reviewed progress on a proposed electrical interconnection initiative during a virtual bilateral meeting between Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary in the Ministry of Power, and Nasser Al-Qahtani, Assistant Minister of Energy for Electricity Affairs in Saudi Arabia. The meeting also examined ways to strengthen wider cooperation in the power sector.

The discussions covered the project’s progress, the way forward and the need for sustained engagement. Both sides also considered technical collaboration, knowledge sharing and the exchange of best practices in areas of mutual interest.

Saudi Arabia expressed interest in working with India on Extra High Voltage (EHV) transmission systems and on technical and operational challenges arising from a higher share of renewable energy in the grid. The areas identified also included meeting the rising electricity requirements of emerging data centres and updating grid codes to reflect changing power-system needs. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to constructive dialogue.

Separately, the Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia advised Indian nationals to take due precautions amid the prevailing security situation. It asked them to move to the nearest safe location, such as an interior room away from windows, if an aerial attack occurred, and not to film, publish or share information, photographs or videos related to ongoing events. Embassy officials were visiting hospitals treating Indian nationals and staying in contact with their families.

Flight operations remained suspended at Riyadh’s international airport, while airports in Dammam, Jeddah and Medina continued operating despite disruptions. Air India, Air India Express and IndiGo had suspended services to and from Saudi Arabia until October 24, while Akasa Air’s suspension extended until October 27. Saudia services from Dammam, Jeddah and Medina, along with selected Flynas and Flyadeal services, were available. Travellers requiring urgent departure were told they could consider transit through Bahrain, Kuwait or Qatar, subject to visas. Umrah travellers were advised to account for cancellations and possible extended stays and use the Embassy’s 24x7 control rooms.