Saudi Crown Prince: We will not hesitate to respond firmly to any threat or attack endangering the Kingdom's security
- Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, on behalf of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, opened the third year of the ninth session of the Shura Council and delivered the annual royal address.
- Mohammed bin Salman: “Vision 2030” has achieved 93% of its targets, and non-oil exports have grown by 155% since 2016.
- Gulf security and stability are indivisible... We are working to enhance strategic cooperation and economic integration.
- The Kingdom is a valve for global energy security... We are making every effort to de-escalate tensions and support diplomatic solutions.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Prime Minister and Saudi Prime Minister, today, on behalf of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz, opened the third year of the ninth session of the Shura Council, delivering the annual royal address that highlighted the key achievements of “Saudi Vision 2030,” the Kingdom’s economic and developmental priorities, and its positions on regional and international developments.
In his speech, delivered on behalf of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques as reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman stated that Saudi Arabia will complete 300 years since its founding on the upcoming Founding Day, reaffirming the state’s commitment to its heritage and authentic values, and its pride in serving, maintaining, and caring for the pilgrims of the Two Holy Mosques.
He noted that ten years of “Saudi Vision 2030” have resulted in achieving 93% of the targets for the Vision’s programs and strategies, pointing out a 155% growth in non-oil exports compared to 2016, and an increase in the private sector’s contribution to the economy to 51%.
He clarified that the Public Investment Fund has launched its strategy for the next five years, focusing on building local economic systems with high competitive capabilities, in partnership with the private sector and enhancing local content, thereby supporting economic transformation and achieving sustainable financial returns.
He stated that the Kingdom ranks globally among the top performers in several indicators, holding the first position in the Digital Readiness Index, the Telecommunications and Technology Development Index, and the Cybersecurity Index, and the second position in the Digital Government Maturity Index. Additionally, it has entered the list of the top ten most attractive countries for mining investment.
He highlighted the designation of 2026 as the “Year of Artificial Intelligence,” underscoring the Kingdom’s commitment to becoming a global leader in developing and applying AI solutions to boost productivity, improve service quality, and train Saudi talent.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman emphasized that the events the region is experiencing have proven that long-term planning does not mean stagnation, but rather the ability to adapt to changes. He noted that reforms enhancing economic diversification have contributed to increasing the Kingdom’s capacity to handle crises, turning threats into opportunities, and continuing its developmental priorities efficiently and sustainably.
He added that current conditions reflect the resilience of the national economy, the maturity of its facilities, the strength and financial sustainability of state institutions, explaining that the core of the Kingdom’s economic policies lies in developing national capabilities, empowering promising sectors, attracting local and international investments, and directing resources to areas with the highest economic and social impact.
He affirmed that the nation’s elevation, prosperity, and improvement in quality of life represent the fundamental goal of all state efforts, noting that the education and health sectors take precedence and receive priority in the state budget.
He noted that the Kingdom, having succeeded in reducing unemployment rates, continues to invest in human capital to maximize opportunities for citizens to enter the labor market and enable them to compete and excel. He pointed out that reforms in the real estate sector have contributed to providing citizens with multiple options, enhancing market efficiency, and increasing homeownership rates.
Regarding security matters, Prince Mohammed bin Salman affirmed that the Kingdom possesses highly capable human and military resources able to confront and deter threats, regardless of their sources. He stressed that attacks targeting all Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states underscore that Gulf security and stability are indivisible.
He stated that the Kingdom is working with Gulf countries to safeguard Gulf security, strengthen strategic cooperation and economic integration, and continue implementing the vision of His Majesty the King to enhance joint efforts that achieve the goals of the GCC and meet the aspirations of its citizens.
He also referred to the establishment of the "Mecca Defense Alliance" between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan, as part of joint efforts to enhance security and stability in the region, expressing the Kingdom’s appreciation for the support of friendly and sister nations and their contributions to strengthening security and stability.
On the energy file, Prince Mohammed bin Salman said the world is facing an energy crisis with uncertain prospects, affirming that the Kingdom has served as a valve for global energy security through its ability to supply oil to international markets despite escalations.
He highlighted the Kingdom’s initiative to establish a "Multinational Maritime Defense Alliance," aimed at enhancing maritime security and protecting shared interests in international sea lanes, rejecting their exploitation as tools for political or economic pressure. He affirmed the continuation of efforts with partners to strengthen international cooperation, preserve security, and de-escalate tensions.
Regarding the Palestinian issue, Prince Mohammed bin Salman condemned the ongoing attacks by the occupation authorities on Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and their violations of Al-Aqsa Mosque, calling on the international community and the Security Council to play their roles in reaching a permanent political solution.
He affirmed that the Kingdom’s commitment to the rights of the Palestinian people is a firm stance and a continuous effort until they achieve their legitimate rights, including the establishment of their independent state in accordance with international references.
On Yemen, the Kingdom renewed its support, through the coalition supporting legitimacy, for the Yemeni government to extend its authority over the entire country, restore stability, and confront Houthi militia attacks. He also reaffirmed the Kingdom’s supportive stance toward the unity and stability of Sudan, preserving its legitimate institutions, and sparing its people the tragedies of war and destruction.
Prince Mohammed bin Salman stressed that the Kingdom is making every possible effort to de-escalate tensions and support diplomatic solutions, without compromising on safeguarding its security. He affirmed that it will not hesitate to respond decisively to any threat or attack aimed at undermining its security.
Earlier, Sheikh Dr. Abdullah Al al-Sheikh, President of the Shura Council, affirmed in his speech that the Council held 46 sessions during the second year of its ninth term, during which it issued 555 decisions related to systems, regulations, agreements, treaties, memoranda of understanding, and annual reports of government entities.
