Saudi Arabia pushes for swift BIT implementation Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed Al‑Jadaan in Doha, where the two discussed the recently concluded bilateral investment treaty (BIT). Al‑Jadaan expressed eagerness for the treaty to take effect immediately and praised India’s economic performance, signalling Saudi interest in welcoming Indian investment.
Switzerland seeks finalisation of investment agreement In a separate meeting, Sitharaman spoke with Swiss Governor at the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), Ambassador Pietro Lazzeri. Lazzeri highlighted that Swiss foreign‑direct investment in India is growing faster than global FDI and urged India to expedite the Bilateral Investment Protection Agreement. He also mentioned an upcoming state visit and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Prosperity Summit in New Delhi, where further financial and sustainable‑finance cooperation could be explored.
India showcases infrastructure opportunities During the talks, Sitharaman drew attention to the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund, a government‑backed vehicle that offers high governance standards for foreign investors. She also promoted GIFT City in Gujarat, describing it as a tax‑friendly, business‑oriented financial hub. These initiatives aim to provide a predictable framework for investors and strengthen confidence in Indian markets.
Nepal on flood‑reconstruction aid While in Doha, Sitharaman held a pull‑aside meeting with Nepal’s Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle. The two reviewed Nepal’s reconstruction priorities following recent floods and agreed to keep the dialogue open for India’s potential support. They also discussed the early operationalisation of a link between India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and Nepal’s payments network, a move that would benefit both economies.
Broader context The meetings took place on the sidelines of the 11th annual AIIB gathering and the AIIB Investors Dialogue 2026. India, as the bank’s second‑largest shareholder, is positioned to influence its agenda. The focus on BITs and investment protection reflects a broader push to deepen economic ties with key partners and to create a stable environment for cross‑border capital flows.
What to watch next - The official signing of the Saudi BIT and its implementation timeline. - The finalisation of the Swiss Bilateral Investment Protection Agreement. - Outcomes of the upcoming state visit and the EFTA Prosperity Summit. - Progress on the UPI‑based payments link with Nepal.
These developments will shape India’s investment landscape and its strategic partnerships in the region.