Saudi Arabia Hosts Inaugural Session of Council of Arab Cybersecurity Ministers
Riyadh, The Gulf Observer: Saudi Arabia, represented by Majid Al-Mazid, governor of the National Cybersecurity Authority, hosted the first-ever session of the Council of Arab Cybersecurity Ministers in Riyadh on Monday.
The landmark event brought together senior officials and ministers responsible for cybersecurity from Arab League member states, along with Ahmed Aboul Gheit, secretary-general of the Arab League.
Commitment to Regional Security
In his opening address, Al-Mazid highlighted Saudi Arabia’s dedication to enhancing Arab security through collective efforts in the cybersecurity sector. He underscored that the Kingdom’s proposal to establish the council was driven by a vision to safeguard the region’s critical interests and promote cooperation among Arab nations.
“Cybersecurity is not only a pillar of national security but also essential for ensuring prosperity, development, and stability across the Arab world,” said Al-Mazid. He added that the council’s formation, supported by Arab leaders, signifies a commitment to creating a secure and prosperous future for the region.
Al-Mazid expressed gratitude to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their unwavering support in fostering Arab unity and strengthening regional security frameworks.
Collective Action Against Global Threats
Ahmed Aboul Gheit emphasized the urgency of joint Arab efforts to combat evolving global cyber threats. He expressed confidence in the council’s potential to bolster Arab national security systems and lauded Saudi Arabia for its leadership in launching the initiative.
“Collective action will be key to building a resilient and secure cybersecurity framework for the region,” Aboul Gheit noted, adding that the council represents a vital step toward achieving this goal.
Strategic Initiatives and Decisions
During the inaugural session, the council reviewed working papers submitted by member states and made pivotal decisions to advance regional cybersecurity. Key outcomes included:
- Development of an Arab Cybersecurity Strategy: A unified approach to address cybersecurity challenges across the region.
- Joint Cyber-Related Exercises: Plans for collaborative training and exercises among member states to strengthen cyber resilience.
- Operational Structure and Mechanisms: Formalization of the council’s framework and processes to ensure effective collaboration.
These initiatives reflect the council’s commitment to fostering a secure digital environment and addressing shared challenges through cooperation.
A Milestone for Arab Cybersecurity
The inaugural session marks a significant milestone in regional efforts to enhance cybersecurity, with Saudi Arabia playing a central role in driving this initiative. The council’s establishment is set to pave the way for greater collaboration and a unified strategy to safeguard the Arab world’s digital future.
