His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Interior, held an expanded official meeting with His Excellency Fernando Grande-Marlaska, Minister of Interior of the Kingdom of Spain, to strengthen the distinguished bilateral relations between the two friendly kingdoms. These talks reaffirm the deep historical and strategic ties that bind the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kingdom of Spain, ties that have been characterized by decades of fruitful cooperation in various fields.
During the meeting, the existing security cooperation between the two countries' interior ministries was reviewed, along with ways to develop it further to serve common interests and fulfill the aspirations of the leadership of both friendly nations. Discussions focused particularly on the importance of exchanging security expertise and information, and coordinating joint efforts to address contemporary security challenges that are characterized by their transnational nature, thus necessitating close international cooperation.
Dimensions of security and strategic cooperation
The two sides discussed a number of security issues of mutual interest, foremost among them strengthening international efforts to combat terrorism and extremism, and fighting organized crime in all its forms, including cybercrime and drug trafficking. This cooperation is an integral part of the Kingdom's comprehensive security strategy, which aims to fortify society and protect national achievements, while simultaneously embracing leading international experiences, given Spain's extensive expertise in security and technology.
Saudi-Spanish relations: A history of partnership
This meeting cannot be viewed in isolation from the historical context of Saudi-Spanish relations, which are characterized by strength and mutual trust at the highest levels. Riyadh and Madrid have long been partners in supporting regional and international stability. These talks acquire added importance in light of the geopolitical changes the world is witnessing, as both countries seek to coordinate their positions to ensure the security and stability of the Middle East and the Mediterranean region.
Alignment with the Kingdom's Vision 2030
These diplomatic and security initiatives align with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which prioritizes developing the security sector and enhancing the efficiency of security agencies through global partnerships and the transfer of knowledge and modern technologies. Strengthening cooperation with European Union countries, particularly Spain, contributes to building a sophisticated security system capable of effectively and efficiently addressing modern threats.
At the conclusion of the talks, both sides stressed the need for continued coordination and ongoing consultation between the security agencies of the two countries, and the activation of joint agreements in a way that strengthens the system of international security and peace, and reflects the two countries’ firm commitment to combating everything that would disrupt global security.
