India, Saudi Arabia ink five accords in Riyadh

India and Saudi Arabia have signed five accords relating to security, economy, defence and energy sectors to boost cooperation. Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Saudi King Abdullah inked the accords in Riyadh declaration that aims at beginning a new era of strategic partnership between the two states. The two states agreed to increase cooperation in information exchange relating to terrorist activities, money laundering, narcotics, arms and human trafficking, and further develop joint strategies to combat the said threats. The Indian Prime Minister and King Abdullah condemned terrorism and extremism and affirmed that the issue has acquired global dimensions and poses a threat to all societies.The treaty, signed by Indias Health and Family Welfare Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad and Saudi Interior Minister Prince Naif bin Abdulaziz, further enhances existing security cooperation and is aimed at helping in apprehending wanted persons in the two countries. Manmohan Singh and King Abdullah also discussed the peace process in the Middle East.