Saudi Delegation Participates in EU–MENA Security Conference in Lisbon
Riyadh – A Saudi delegation, led by Assistant Interior Minister Hisham Al-Faleh on behalf of the interior minister, took part in the EU–MENA Ministerial Conference held in Lisbon.
The event brought together officials from Europe, the Middle East, and several international organizations to strengthen regional dialogue and address shared security concerns.
The conference was inaugurated by Portuguese Home Affairs Minister Maria Lucia Amaral, who emphasized the need for deeper cooperation across the EU–MENA region.
She highlighted that growing geopolitical challenges require unified frameworks that support long-term stability and mutual understanding.
Saudi officials said the Kingdom views the conference as an important platform for exchanging ideas and aligning future security strategies.
Al-Faleh underscored the value of collaborative work in strengthening regional preparedness and enhancing the capacity of law-enforcement institutions.
He noted that combating organized crime continues to pose significant challenges for countries across both regions.
Al-Faleh called for stronger international partnerships capable of improving coordination and sharing timely information to confront evolving threats.
Participants discussed a range of issues including cross-border crime, cyberthreats, trafficking networks, and the spread of extremist activities.
Delegates emphasized that addressing these concerns requires a unified approach supported by integrated security policies.
Conference sessions also reviewed emerging security models designed to help governments respond more effectively to rapidly changing risks.
Experts presented studies on intelligence cooperation, technological adoption in policing, and modern mechanisms for data exchange between agencies.
Officials from Arab and European nations agreed that security cooperation is increasingly tied to economic stability, energy resilience, and social development.
They noted that improved coordination can support regional growth by creating safer environments for investment, travel, and trade.
Several speakers highlighted the importance of professional development programs that equip law-enforcement personnel with advanced skills and technologies.
They discussed opportunities to expand joint training exercises, exchange specialized expertise, and build long-term institutional partnerships.
Delegates also explored ways to enhance communication channels between regional security agencies to ensure faster and more accurate threat detection.
They stressed that consistent information-sharing networks are essential for preventing crimes before they escalate.
The conference reaffirmed the value of sustained EU–MENA cooperation in addressing security challenges that transcend national borders.
Participants expressed that maintaining an open political dialogue is vital for building trust and developing durable, practical solutions.
Saudi representatives emphasized the Kingdom’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote peace, stability, and cooperative action across the region.
They said the country is ready to contribute to shared strategies that reinforce collective resilience against modern security risks.
The event concluded with discussions on future engagement mechanisms and steps to enhance coordination between partner nations.
Officials agreed that regular dialogue and expanded collaboration will be necessary to keep pace with the evolving security landscape.
Delegates expressed optimism that the conference will strengthen long-term ties and encourage continued exchange of expertise between the EU and MENA regions.
They noted that building interconnected security frameworks will contribute to a more stable and secure regional environment.
