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.



EU Gulf Envoy: Saudi Arabia Is a Crucial Global Player

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman receiving European Council President Charles Michel on Tuesday (SPA)
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman receiving European Council President Charles Michel on Tuesday (SPA)
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EU Gulf Envoy: Saudi Arabia Is a Crucial Global Player

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman receiving European Council President Charles Michel on Tuesday (SPA)
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman receiving European Council President Charles Michel on Tuesday (SPA)

Luigi Di Maio, the EU Special Representative for the Gulf region, told Asharq Al-Awsat that the recent visit by the President of the European Council to Saudi Arabia was to prepare for the upcoming EU-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) summit in Brussels on October 16.

This will be the first summit between the two regional organizations, with leaders from both sides attending, marking a significant step in their cooperation.

Di Maio stressed the importance of strong ties between leaders, noting that European Council President Charles Michel has been dedicated to strengthening these relations since his first visit to the Gulf two years ago, when he met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah.

He added that since 2022, EU-Gulf relations have improved, with a focus on cooperation in areas like climate change, trade, investment, digitization, and sustainable supply chains.

Di Maio emphasized the need for ongoing dialogue to build mutual understanding and deepen these relations.

He highlighted Saudi Arabia’s key role in global affairs, especially in seeking solutions for the Gaza conflict, reducing tensions in the Middle East, and pursuing a just peace in Ukraine.

He stressed that closer cooperation between the EU and Saudi Arabia is essential in tackling these issues.

Di Maio praised Thursday’s preparatory meeting in Riyadh between GCC Secretary-General Jasem Al-Budaiwi and Michel, calling it “timely and constructive” for the upcoming summit.

He emphasized both sides’ commitment to making the summit a success, noting that it will “send a strong signal about elevating EU-Gulf relations to a strategic level.”

Di Maio outlined the key topics for discussion at the summit in Brussels, including climate action, the green transition, digital advancements, trade, investments, and visa exemptions.

He added that the summit will also address major geopolitical challenges, particularly in the Middle East and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.