The Foreign Minister discusses regional developments with the European Union and Cyprus
His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, the Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs, received an important joint telephone call reflecting the depth of the Kingdom’s diplomatic efforts, from the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus, Constantinos Kombous, whose country holds the current presidency of the European Union.
Details of the tripartite talks
The call included a comprehensive review of the latest developments on the regional and international scenes, with all three parties focusing on efforts to enhance security and stability in the Middle East and the Mediterranean region. This call comes at a sensitive time, requiring high-level coordination among key players, as Saudi Arabia represents a cornerstone of regional stability, while the European Union plays a pivotal role in global political and economic affairs.
Cyprus' role and the EU presidency
This contact is of particular importance given that the Republic of Cyprus holds the rotating presidency of the European Union. Cyprus, by virtue of its geographical proximity to the Middle East and its historical ties with countries in the region, serves as a vital bridge for Euro-Arab dialogue. The Cypriot presidency typically prioritizes the issues of the EU's southern neighborhood and Mediterranean security on the European agenda, making coordination with Saudi Arabia a strategic step to ensure the success of political and security initiatives.
The growing Saudi-European partnership
This ongoing communication reflects the remarkable development in relations between Saudi Arabia and the European Union in recent years. The relationship has transcended traditional frameworks to encompass strategic partnerships in the areas of energy, climate change, and regional security. Brussels views Riyadh as an indispensable partner in addressing the complex crises plaguing the region, given the Kingdom's political and economic weight and its direct influence within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the League of Arab States.
The importance of coordination with Kaya Kalas
Engaging with Kaya Kallas, in her capacity as High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, underscores the European Union's desire to align its vision with the Kingdom on pressing issues. European foreign policy at this stage focuses on containing escalation in conflict zones, ensuring the security of waterways, and strengthening economic cooperation—issues that directly intersect with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and its foreign policy, which is based on diversifying partnerships and supporting peaceful conflict resolution.
The call concluded with an emphasis on the need to continue consultation and joint coordination to address existing challenges, in a way that serves the interests of all parties and enhances the prospects for peace and prosperity in the region and the world.
