Mohammed bin Salman: Gulf Security and Stability Are Inseparable
Riyadh (Agencies): Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman affirmed that the establishment of the "Mecca Defense Alliance" between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan came "in line with our joint efforts to play our role in enhancing security and stability in the region." In the context of his country’s contributions to enhancing regional stability, sparing it from the repercussions of tensions and conflicts, and coordinating efforts, the Crown Prince stated during his annual royal address, delivered at the opening of the third year of the ninth session of the Shura Council: "Your country possesses highly capable human and military resources, able to fully confront and deter threats regardless of their source." He also expressed pride "in the brave heroes who have confronted all forms of threats, and in their constant vigilance and readiness, ensuring that security remains a canopy over our country, stability its shield, and prosperity its path."
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman emphasized that Riyadh is making every possible effort to de-escalate tensions and support diplomatic solutions, without any compromise in safeguarding its security. He stressed that his country "will not hesitate to respond decisively to any threat or aggression aimed at undermining it." He commended the stance of brotherly and friendly countries standing by Saudi Arabia and their contributions to enhancing security and stability. He clarified that attacks targeting all Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries confirm that Gulf security and stability are indivisible. The Crown Prince noted that Saudi Arabia is working with GCC states to preserve Gulf security, pursue strategic cooperation and economic integration, and continue implementing the vision of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to enhance joint efforts that achieve the Council’s objectives and meet the aspirations of its citizens.
The annual royal address outlined key aspects of Saudi foreign policy, reaffirming Riyadh’s positions on regional issues such as the Palestinian cause, the Yemeni crisis, and energy affairs. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman stressed that the world is currently facing an energy crisis with open-ended possibilities, during which Saudi Arabia served as a valve for global energy security, capable of supplying oil to international markets despite the escalation. He pointed out that Saudi Arabia took the initiative to establish the "Multinational Maritime Defense Alliance" to enhance maritime security and protect shared interests in international sea lanes, rejecting their exploitation as tools for political or economic pressure. He affirmed that Riyadh is making every effort with partners to strengthen international cooperation to preserve security, de-escalate tensions, and defuse conflicts to achieve regional and international stability, while emphasizing the necessity for the international community to accelerate fulfilling its responsibilities to ensure the safe flow of essential goods and humanitarian aid.
On another note, the Saudi Crown Prince "strongly condemned" the continued brutal attacks by the occupation on the Gaza Strip and its multiple violations of Al-Aqsa Mosque, calling on the international community, and the Security Council in particular, to play its expected role in reaching a permanent political solution. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman affirmed that Saudi Arabia is committed to the rights of the Palestinian people, noting that this commitment is a firm stance and a continuous effort that will not cease.
Regarding Yemen, the Crown Prince stressed that Riyadh reaffirms its comprehensive support, through the coalition supporting legitimacy, for the Yemeni government to extend its authority over the entire country, restore stability, and confront the attacks of the terrorist Houthi militias, which have chosen chaos and destruction, threatening the Yemeni people and the region. He also reiterated Saudi Arabia’s firm and supportive position regarding the unity and stability of Sudan, preserving its legitimate institutions, and sparing its people from the tragedies of war and destruction.
Domestically, the Saudi Crown Prince stated that the Kingdom will complete 300 years since its establishment on the upcoming Founding Day, having been founded on the Book of God and the Sunnah of His Messenger, adhering to monotheism and justice. This is "a path we will not deviate from, preserving its legacy and authentic values that grow deeper and stronger with time, which has made citizens more attached to their pure faith and solid national identity." He added: "God has honored our state with serving the Two Holy Mosques, maintaining them, and caring for their visitors. This is an extension of our inherited commitment in this regard and a pride in this great honor bestowed upon us by God."
The annual royal address included indicators of Vision 2030. The Crown Prince affirmed that the past ten years were full of achievements, with Vision 2030 programs and strategies achieving 93% of their targets due to the performance and competence of Saudi men and women, who were the source of every success. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman noted that non-oil exports recorded a growth of 155% compared to 2016, while the private sector’s contribution to the economy rose to 51%. He affirmed that the transport and logistics system has proven its ability to handle changes in supply chains and maintain the smooth flow of goods and services.
He said: "We have named 2026 the 'Year of Artificial Intelligence,' affirming our commitment to ensuring the Kingdom becomes a global leader in developing AI applications and solutions, and investing in them to increase productivity, improve service quality, and train Saudi talents." He continued: "The events currently taking place in the region are proof that long-term planning does not mean stagnation or immobility, but rather the ability to adapt to changes." He pointed out that current conditions are evidence of the resilience of the national economy, the maturity of its facilities, the strength of state institutions’ capabilities, and its financial sustainability.
