What happened?
On August 11, 2025, Indian Ambassador to Yemen, Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, met with the Chairman of the Presidential Leadership Council of Yemen, Dr. Rashad Al-Alimi, in Riyadh to discuss India-Yemen relations and issues of mutual interest. The meeting was also attended by Deputy Chief of Mission Abu Mathen and First Secretary Rishi Tripathi.
Why it matters to India
India shares historic and strategic ties with Yemen, having been among the earliest countries to support Yemen’s independence. Bilateral trade between the two nations stood at USD 1.07 billion in FY 2021–22. India’s exports to Yemen—valued at USD 847 million—include rice, wheat, pharmaceuticals, textiles, petroleum products, and processed foods. Imports from Yemen—worth USD 228 million—mainly consist of petroleum, metals, telecom equipment, and raw hides. India also holds a strong position in Yemen’s pharmaceutical sector, with several leading Indian pharma companies such as Ranbaxy, Cipla, Sun Pharma, and Biocon actively present in the Yemeni market. The meeting underscores New Delhi’s continued engagement with the region, focusing on economic cooperation and long-term strategic partnership.