NAUSS Hosts Workshop to Boost Arab Security Against Drones

The workshop hosted by the Naif Arab University for Security Sciences (NAUSS) deliberated on the primary uses of drones across various security domains (NAUSS)
The workshop hosted by the Naif Arab University for Security Sciences (NAUSS) deliberated on the primary uses of drones across various security domains (NAUSS)
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NAUSS Hosts Workshop to Boost Arab Security Against Drones

The workshop hosted by the Naif Arab University for Security Sciences (NAUSS) deliberated on the primary uses of drones across various security domains (NAUSS)
The workshop hosted by the Naif Arab University for Security Sciences (NAUSS) deliberated on the primary uses of drones across various security domains (NAUSS)

Abdulmajeed Al-Banyan, president of Naif Arab University for Security Sciences (NAUSS), has emphasized NAUSS’ keen interest in emerging technologies, such as autonomous systems, with one prominent example being unmanned aerial vehicles, commonly known as drones.

The university views drones as a crucial tool for enhancing security, improving its efficiency, while also recognizing the potential risks they pose when falling into the hands of criminal organizations and gangs.

Al-Banyan urged the necessity of taking the initiative to enhance the capabilities of Arab security agencies and their personnel in confronting these risks and threats.

This can be achieved through legislative measures and systems, as well as by developing human capacities through advanced training in collaboration with relevant international institutions.

Al-Banyan also stressed how essential it is to devise technological solutions that align with security challenges, in accordance with the priorities of the Arab region.

Additionally, support for decision-making should be provided through the preparation of studies and reports.

Al-Banyan’s remarks were delivered during the inauguration of the workshop titled “Utilizing Drones in Security Domains: Opportunities, Challenges, and Policies.”

The workshop commenced on Monday at NAUSS’ headquarters in Riyadh.

Conducted in collaboration with the Korean Institute of Aviation Technology and Safety, the workshop spans three days and brings together 140 experts from Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Djibouti, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Oman, Qatar, Libya, the United States, South Korea, Malaysia, Spain, and INTERPOL.

Al-Banyan elaborated that NAUSS, through its academic, training, and research programs, as well as its scientific endeavors, is committed to executing the scholarly aspect of the Arab security strategies and plans ratified across various security realms.

These efforts are directed towards realizing their objectives and aims, including this workshop, which is held within the framework of constructive collaboration and strategic partnership with relevant Korean institutions.

Al-Banyan underscored NAUSS’ contributions that entail enhancing human capacities and supporting security decision-making, a feat achieved through the invaluable support from the host state, Saudi Arabia.



Attacks from Iraq on East-West Pipeline Draw Strong Condemnations

Saudi Aramco logo. Reuters
Saudi Aramco logo. Reuters
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Attacks from Iraq on East-West Pipeline Draw Strong Condemnations

Saudi Aramco logo. Reuters
Saudi Aramco logo. Reuters

Attacks on a key Saudi oil pipeline launched from Iraqi territory drew on Saturday strong condemnations from many countries and organizations.

The Saudi Foreign Ministry blamed the attacks on the East-West pipeline in the Riyadh and Madinah regions on several drones that came from Iraq and, in a statement, said the Kingdom would not retaliate to give the Iraqi government “an opportunity to take the necessary measures.”

Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, Oman, Egypt, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Muslim World League (MWL) were quick to condemn the attacks.

The statements stressed full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and backed all measures taken by the Kingdom to safeguard its territory.


Saudi Arabia Welcomes Launch of Global Alliance for South-South and Triangular Cooperation

File photo of the Saudi flag/AAWSAT
File photo of the Saudi flag/AAWSAT
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Saudi Arabia Welcomes Launch of Global Alliance for South-South and Triangular Cooperation

File photo of the Saudi flag/AAWSAT
File photo of the Saudi flag/AAWSAT

Saudi Arabia has welcomed the launch of the Global Alliance for South-South and Triangular Cooperation, emphasizing its importance in enhancing integration and reducing duplication of efforts while respecting countries’ national priorities.

In the Kingdom’s speech delivered on the occasion of the United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation, Saudi Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Dr. Abdulaziz Alwasil said Saudi Vision 2030 aligns with the priorities of South-South cooperation, particularly in economic diversification, digital transformation, innovation, sustainability, youth empowerment, and the private sector, SPA reported.

He noted that the Saudi Fund for Development has contributed to supporting and financing development projects and programs in more than 100 developing countries across various vital sectors, affirming Saudi Arabia’s commitment to continuing to work with member states, the United Nations, and partners to strengthen cooperation and achieve more prosperous, sustainable, and inclusive development.


GCC Secretary-General Condemns East-West Pipeline Attack in Saudi Arabia

GCC Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi. SPA
GCC Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi. SPA
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GCC Secretary-General Condemns East-West Pipeline Attack in Saudi Arabia

GCC Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi. SPA
GCC Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi. SPA

Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Albudaiwi strongly condemned the targeting of the East-West Pipeline in Riyadh and Madinah regions of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by several drones launched from Iraq, resulting in casualties and material damage.

He affirmed that the attack represents a dangerous escalation and an unacceptable threat to Saudi Arabia's security and the safety of its territory and vital facilities, constituting a flagrant violation of the principles of international law.

He stressed the GCC’s categorical rejection of all acts targeting the Kingdom’s security, stability, and national resources, SPA reported.

The GCC secretary-general underscored the importance of the Iraqi government exerting greater efforts and taking necessary and decisive measures to prevent its territory from being used as a launchpad for such attacks, and working to halt and prevent their recurrence, thereby helping preserve the region's security and stability and preventing further escalation.

He reiterated the GCC’s full and steadfast support for Saudi Arabia and its complete backing of all measures and actions taken by the Kingdom to protect its security and stability, the safety of its territory and vital facilities, and its citizens and residents.