About
West Asia Review
West Asia Review is a platform dedicated to providing insightful analysis and commentary on the dynamic and complex region of West Asia. Drawing from my extensive diplomatic experience in the region, this blog aims to foster a deeper understanding of the political, economic, and cultural currents that shape the region’s landscape.
Having served in various key roles across the Gulf and beyond, I have witnessed firsthand the evolving relationships between West Asia and the rest of the world, particularly India. Through West Asia Review, I seek to highlight these transformations, explore emerging opportunities, and offer perspectives on the challenges and partnerships that define the region’s global standing. From diplomacy and trade to cultural exchange, the West Asia Review brings informed commentary to readers eager to stay ahead of the developments shaping this critical part of the world.
34 Years Of Service
Dr. Ausaf Sayeed
Dr Ausaf Sayeed (b. September 18, 1963) is a former career diplomat and Ambassador from the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), having served the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, for nearly 34 years. He has held various leadership roles throughout his tenure, contributing significantly to India’s diplomatic, political, and economic engagements across the globe. He served as India’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Yemen, High Commissioner of India to Seychelles and Consul General of India in Chicago and Jeddah, besides serving in Egypt, Qatar and Denmark. He dedicated 18 years of his career to the Middle East, with ten years spent in various capacities in Saudi Arabia.
Dr Sayeed is widely recognised as a strategic thinker who focuses on fostering business development between India and the Middle East. His efforts were instrumental in transforming India’s relations with Saudi Arabia and other Gulf nations, promoting trade, investments, and joint ventures while fostering closer security and defence ties.
As India’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Dr Sayeed played a pivotal role in establishing the India-Saudi Strategic Partnership Council in October 2019. This achievement marked a significant milestone in India’s strategic relationship with Saudi Arabia and laid the foundation for deeper political, economic, and cultural cooperation.
As Secretary (CPV & OIA), he has overseen India’s overall relations with countries in the GCC and WANA regions and helped further cement India’s ties with these countries. As a nodal officer responsible for matters pertaining to Consular, Passport, Visas, Overseas Emigration, and NRI & Overseas Indian Affairs, Dr Sayeed played a pivotal role in maintaining a strong connection with the Indian Diaspora across different parts of the world. He successfully organised the 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2023 in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, celebrating India’s vibrant diaspora and their contributions.
Dr Ausaf Sayeed holds a Master of Science and a PhD in Geology from Osmania University in Hyderabad and an Advanced Diploma in Arabic from the American University in Cairo. He is a Competent Toastmaster (CTM) and recipient of the Shri Y.G.K. Murthy Gold Medal from Osmania University.
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