A high-level Indian delegation has concluded a landmark series of strategic meetings in Saudi Arabia, strengthening bilateral media partnerships and generating momentum for India’s upcoming World Audio-Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES 2025).
Led by Information and Broadcasting Secretary Sanjay Jaju and Prasar Bharati CEO Gaurav Dwivedi, the delegation met with key Saudi media leaders during the “Future of Media” Exhibition (FOMEX) in Riyadh. During their visit, the team toured exhibition booths of global media organizations including MBC Group, Ekagami, Sony, and AIBD at FOMEX, exploring potential international partnerships.
Other engagements included discussions with Jomana R. Alrashid, CEO of Saudi Research and Media Group (SRMG), and Assistant Minister of Media Abdullah bin Ahmed Al-Maghlouth, focusing on expanding bilateral media cooperation.
The delegation’s agenda featured a meeting with Mohammed bin Fahd Al-Harthi, CEO of Saudi Broadcasting Authority, exploring synergies in broadcasting technology and content exchange. Secretary Jaju also participated in a panel discussion on “Modern Digital Marketing Tools: Innovations & Growth Opportunities” at the Saudi Media Forum, highlighting India’s digital media advancements and the upcoming WAVES 2025 summit.
Productive sessions were held with Hassan Al Asmari, Vice President of the Saudi Press Agency, and Fahad Suwayan, Manager of the Saudi Film Commission, establishing frameworks for cross-border content creation and distribution.
The delegation, accompanied by Indian Ambassador Dr. Suhel Khan, engaged in substantive talks with the Saudi Ministry of Investment about media infrastructure development and technological collaboration.
The delegation included key Ministry officials, including Raman Kumar, Director of Global Outreach at PBS, and Kshitij Aggarwal, Deputy Director of Digital Media, who explored opportunities for educational content creation and professional training programs.
WAVES 2025, scheduled for May 1-4 at Mumbai’s Jio World Convention Centre, is positioned as a transformative event in India’s digital entertainment landscape. The summit, announced by Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and endorsed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will showcase cutting-edge advancements in animation, gaming, visual effects, augmented reality, and virtual production.
“The enthusiastic response from our Saudi counterparts regarding WAVES 2025 and their interest in comprehensive media sector collaboration marks a significant milestone in Indo-Saudi relations,” Secretary Jaju remarked. The timing of these discussions is particularly relevant as both nations work to diversify their economies and strengthen their positions in the global digital entertainment market.
The partnerships forged during this visit are expected to create extensive opportunities for content creators, technology providers, and media professionals in both countries. This diplomatic initiative represents a crucial step in India’s strategy to establish itself as a leading force in the global entertainment industry while fostering stronger cultural and economic ties with Saudi Arabia.
The meetings have laid the groundwork for long-term collaboration in digital media, broadcasting, and entertainment, with both nations committed to leveraging their respective strengths in the rapidly evolving global media landscape.
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