In a strategic move aimed at deepening the security partnership between the two kingdoms, His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz, the Saudi Minister of Interior, held official talks with his Spanish counterpart, Mr. Fernando Grande-Marlaska, at the Ministry of Interior headquarters in Riyadh. The talks culminated in the signing of a joint action plan outlining the future of security cooperation between the two friendly nations.
Historical background of Saudi-Spanish relations
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kingdom of Spain share deep-rooted historical ties spanning decades and encompassing various political, economic, and cultural spheres. This security cooperation is a natural extension of this established partnership, as both countries face common security challenges that necessitate high-level coordination. Spain, by virtue of its geographical location as a gateway to Europe from the south, is a pivotal partner in combating transnational threats, while the Kingdom represents a strategic weight in the Middle East region, making their cooperation a cornerstone of regional and international stability.
Dimensions of the joint plan and its expected impact
During the meeting, Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud affirmed that this gathering was in implementation of the directives of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to strengthen cooperation within the framework of the distinguished relations that bind the two countries. The discussions focused on mechanisms to enhance cooperation in vital areas, most notably:
- Combating organized crime: Addressing international criminal networks operating in various fields, and coordinating efforts to track down perpetrators and bring them to justice.
- Combating drug trafficking: Exchanging information and expertise to counter drug trafficking networks that pose a global threat to public health and community security.
- Money laundering: Strengthening oversight and drying up sources of terrorist and criminal financing through cooperation in combating money laundering operations.
- Exchange of experiences: Developing the human and technical capabilities of the security services in both countries through joint training programs and the exchange of best practices and experiences.
Strategic importance at both the regional and international levels
The importance of this agreement extends beyond its bilateral dimension to encompass regional and international aspects. Saudi-Spanish coordination contributes to strengthening the security of the Mediterranean and Middle East regions, two adjacent areas that are interdependent in terms of security. This cooperation also serves as a model for effective international partnerships in confronting complex security threats that no single country can address alone, thereby bolstering the global security system and supporting international stability.
The talks and signing ceremony were attended by several senior officials from both sides, including His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Mohammed bin Ayyaf, Deputy Minister of the Interior; Assistant Minister of the Interior, Mr. Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al-Falih; and Director of Public Security, Lieutenant General Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Bassami. From the Spanish side, the attendees included the Spanish Ambassador to the Kingdom, Mr. Javier Carbajosa Sánchez, and the Director General of International Relations and Foreign Affairs, Ms. Elena Garzón Otamendi.
