Multinational Naval Defense Coalition Holds Fourth Planning Meeting in Jeddah with Participation of 154 Representatives
Riyadh - 18 - 9 (KUNA) -- The multinational defensive maritime coalition held its fourth planning meeting at the Western Fleet Command in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with the participation of 154 representatives from naval commanders, planners, ambassadors, and European Union representatives from 41 friendly and partner countries.
The Saudi Ministry of Defense stated in a press release on Friday that the meeting comes as part of the coalition’s continued transition from the establishment phase to operational execution, following its attainment of initial operational capability. The coalition is currently in the phase of integrating capabilities and preparing for operational execution and a physical presence in the maritime area of operations.
The ministry added that the meeting discussed recent developments and achievements during the previous phase, as well as progress in countries joining the coalition. It noted that several countries signed the charter and joint statement during this phase, while 28 liaison officers are currently in place. The meeting also addressed the requirements for joint operations and identified the missions and capabilities to be contributed by participating countries, thereby supporting the coordinated and integrated operational execution of the coalition and enhancing its operational readiness.
It clarified that the fourth planning meeting represents an advanced stage in the coalition’s trajectory, as the focus shifts to strengthening operational readiness and preparing for operations under a unified command, leading to deployment and the commencement of operational missions in the area of responsibility. This is based on the premise that protecting freedom of navigation, maritime passages, and straits constitutes a shared international interest that requires effective partnership, diverse capabilities, and a collective response.
The ministry affirmed that the coalition is working to support the security and safety of maritime navigation in accordance with international law, within a multinational operational environment based on unified command, integrated capabilities, information sharing, and coordinated efforts to counter threats targeting the security of navigation and maritime passages in the area of responsibility.
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