Saudi Foreign Minister: Gulf security is an integral part of the security of the region and the world
New York, Sept 26 (KUNA) -- Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan affirmed on Saturday that the security of the Arabian Gulf region is an integral part of the security of the region and the world, warning that its stability is directly linked to global energy security, the continuity of international trade, and the sustainability of supply chains.
This was stated in a speech delivered by Prince Faisal bin Farhan during the high-level debates of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, in which he reiterated the Kingdom’s right to protect its security, sovereignty, and citizens amid what he described as "brazen Iranian aggression" against the Kingdom and regional states.
He called on the international community to shoulder its responsibilities in confronting threats to international peace and security, emphasizing that safeguarding international navigation and ensuring the sustainability of global supply chains are shared responsibilities requiring international cooperation.
He stressed the importance of guaranteeing freedom of navigation in all international waterways, foremost among them the Hormuz Strait, the Bab al-Mandab Strait, the Red Sea, and the Gulf of Aden, warning against exposing the global economy to risks that affect all countries.
Prince Faisal bin Farhan called for a return to the status quo in the Hormuz Strait as it was before February 28, and for the non-imposition of any new fees or restrictions. He reiterated the Kingdom’s rejection of using any party to exploit these vital waterways "as a tool for pressure, threat, or harming the interests of states."
On the Yemeni issue, the Saudi Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of supporting efforts aimed at reaching a comprehensive political solution that ensures Yemen’s stability, supports its economy, and alleviates the humanitarian suffering of its people. He noted that the Kingdom had provided humanitarian and developmental aid to Yemen exceeding $29 billion, making it "the largest donor of humanitarian aid to the Republic of Yemen in 2025."
He welcomed the statement by members of the UN Security Council, which included condemnation of the missile and drone attacks launched by the Houthi group against the Kingdom and commercial vessels, calling on the international community to reject and condemn the group’s attacks and its threats to navigation security in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait.
On energy security, Prince Faisal bin Farhan affirmed that ensuring supply stability, protecting critical infrastructure, diversifying supply routes, and safeguarding freedom of navigation are shared responsibilities requiring continuous international cooperation. He pointed out that the Kingdom maintained the continuity of energy supplies despite disruptions in navigation through the Hormuz Strait, thanks to its long-term investments in infrastructure.
Regarding "Saudi Vision 2030," Prince Faisal stated that it represents a model of comprehensive national transformation based on economic diversification, investment in human capital, enhancing innovation, empowering youth and women, developing the private sector, and consolidating sustainability. He noted that the contribution of non-oil activities to non-oil GDP reached 55 percent, while the unemployment rate among Saudis dropped to 6.4 percent in 2026, compared to 3.12 percent in 2016.
On artificial intelligence, the Saudi Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of harnessing new technologies to serve humanity and development, and enhancing international cooperation to ensure their responsible use. He highlighted the Kingdom’s role in establishing the International Network of AI Capacity-Building Centers and hosting the International Center for AI Research and Ethics in Riyadh under the patronage of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
In conclusion, Prince Faisal called for greater wisdom, responsibility, and international cooperation to address global challenges, affirming that the Kingdom will continue to work with its partners to enhance sustainable development, promote peaceful solutions to crises, and support pathways that consolidate stability, trust, and mutual respect. (End) A.S.T / M.A.H.A
