Saudi Arabia stresses the necessity of keeping the Strait of Hormuz, the Bab el-Mandeb, and all sea lanes open and safe - Sarmad
(KUNA) – Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan stressed on Wednesday the necessity of keeping the Hormuz Strait, the Bab al-Mandab Strait, and all maritime routes open, secure, and free from any threats. He emphasized that the Kingdom continues its efforts to de-escalate tensions and prevent the recurrence of conflicts.
The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a press release that these remarks were made during Prince Faisal bin Farhan’s meeting with his Japanese counterpart, Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, in Riyadh, at the third Strategic Dialogue between the two countries.
Prince Faisal bin Farhan noted that maritime security is among the shared priorities of both nations, underscoring the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation in all international waterways in accordance with international law. He reiterated the necessity of keeping the Hormuz Strait, Bab al-Mandab, and all maritime routes open, secure, and free from any threats.
He affirmed that Saudi Arabia remains committed to de-escalation efforts and preventing the resurgence of tensions and conflicts by focusing on comprehensive and sustainable diplomatic solutions that address the root causes of instability in the region. He pointed out that diplomacy, dialogue, and peaceful means remain top priorities.
In this context, Prince Faisal bin Farhan praised Japan’s role in supporting the principles of international law, its humanitarian and developmental contributions, and its positions in favor of stability and peaceful solutions.
He also highlighted the importance of the strong ties between Saudi Arabia and Japan, noting both countries’ commitment to enhancing cooperation in economic, energy, and technological fields.
He stated that Saudi Arabia places great importance on its decades-long relationship with Japan, which is built on mutual trust and respect, adding that Japan is a key economic partner for the Kingdom.
He expressed Saudi Arabia’s hope to continue developing these relations and to capitalize on the promising economic opportunities available to both countries, particularly in investment, energy, resources, supply chains, defense, and technology, as well as through the exchange of expertise and capabilities to support their priorities and achieve shared objectives. He affirmed that Saudi Arabia will remain a reliable partner for Japan in various sectors, including energy, and commended Japan’s efforts and initiatives aimed at strengthening economic resilience and the stability of global energy and trade markets.
