Saudi FM Reiterates OPEC+ Decision is Not Political

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (EPA)
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (EPA)
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Saudi FM Reiterates OPEC+ Decision is Not Political

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (EPA)
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (EPA)

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan has said that the OPEC+ decision to cut production is purely economic and was taken unanimously by the member states.

The Foreign Minister said "OPEC+ members acted responsibly and took the appropriate decision," stressing that it is not a political move.

During an interview with Al Arabiya channel, the minister indicated that OPEC+ seeks to stabilize the market and achieve the interests of producers and consumers.

He described Saudi ties with the US as "strategic" and supported the security and stability of the region.

The military cooperation between Riyadh and Washington serves the interests of both countries and has contributed to the stability of the region, said the FM, adding: "our relationship with the United States has been institutionalized since it was established."

On the Russian-Ukrainian war, he indicated that Saudi Arabia aims to push parties to engage in dialogue and stop the conflict.

Prince Faisal addressed the Yemeni crisis, saying there are still efforts to extend the truce in Yemen, and the government has shown great flexibility with a high responsibility towards the country's interests.

Asked about the relationship with China, he pointed out that ties with China are "economic at the first level, and we have many joint economic projects."



Saudi Arabia to Host First Meeting of Arab Cybersecurity Ministers Council

The flag of Saudi Arabia. Asharq Al-Awsat
The flag of Saudi Arabia. Asharq Al-Awsat
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Saudi Arabia to Host First Meeting of Arab Cybersecurity Ministers Council

The flag of Saudi Arabia. Asharq Al-Awsat
The flag of Saudi Arabia. Asharq Al-Awsat

Saudi Arabia, represented by the National Cybersecurity Authority, is set to host on Monday the inaugural meeting of the Arab Cybersecurity Ministers Council.

The meeting will be attended by ministers and officials responsible for cybersecurity in Arab League member states, alongside the organization’s Secretary General, Ahmed Aboul Gheit.

The agenda includes discussions on key topics of mutual interest, such as drafting the Arab cybersecurity strategy, organizing joint cybersecurity exercises, and reviewing working papers submitted by Arab League member states. These initiatives aim to foster enhanced cooperation in cybersecurity across the Arab region.

The Arab Cybersecurity Ministers Council, established following a proposal by Saudi Arabia and endorsed by all Arab countries, is tasked with formulating general policies, strategies, and priorities to advance joint Arab efforts in cybersecurity.

Its objectives include enhancing collaboration, coordinating efforts among Arab states on cybersecurity issues, sharing knowledge and expertise, and safeguarding member states' interests in international cybersecurity organizations. The council also seeks to develop a unified Arab stance on cybersecurity matters in international forums and contribute to creating a secure and trustworthy Arab cyberspace that promotes growth and prosperity for all member states.