Saudi, Turkish interior ministers discuss boosting security cooperation

Saudi Minister of Interior Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif met today with Turkish Minister of Interior Mustafa Çalışkan in Ankara.

Following the meeting, the two sides held official talks during which Abdulaziz bin Saud emphasized the importance of further strengthening the existing security cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Turkey, in line with the directives of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman.

He noted that the longstanding and brotherly relations between the two countries serve as a model for cooperation and coordination across various fields, highlighting that the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan reflects the depth of their ties and shared strategic interests amid the current geopolitical environment.

The talks reviewed ways to enhance security cooperation and coordination in areas of mutual interest, intensify efforts to counter terrorist and extremist groups, and combat cross-border crimes, including drug trafficking and distribution, in light of regional and international challenges.

Both sides stressed the importance of developing their security partnership and coordinating efforts to address security issues in line with the aspirations of their respective leaderships.

The meeting and talks were attended on the Saudi side by Prince Bandar bin Abdullah bin Mashari, advisor to the Minister of Interior, Saudi Ambassador to Turkey Fahd bin Asaad Abu Al-Nasr, and several senior officials. The Turkish side was represented by Deputy Minister of Interior Dr. Muhammed Cangir, Director General of the Gendarmerie Ali Jirdakci, Director General of the National Police Ali Fidan, Coast Guard Commander General Ahmed Kendil, and other senior officials.