Saudi Cabinet welcomes Riyadh selection as OIC cybersecurity council HQ

The 52nd Council of Foreign Ministers session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has approved the creation of an OIC council dedicated to cybersecurity, following a suggestion made by Saudi Arabia. As the host of the Jeddah-based OIC, which comprises 57 Arab and Islamic nations, Riyadh will serve as the headquarters for this new council, the largest intergovernmental body focused on cybersecurity.

The primary objective of the council is to bolster cybersecurity across OIC member states, shield their critical infrastructures and national security, enhance cooperation, and safeguard their interests in international cybersecurity organizations. The council will function as a subsidiary body of the OIC, with its general secretariat and executive office based in Riyadh.

Expressing support for the Saudi proposal, Governor of the National Cybersecurity Authority Majed Al-Mazyed emphasized the increasing cyber threats worldwide and their potential to jeopardize nations' vital interests, critical infrastructure, priority sectors, and government services. He highlighted the importance of cybersecurity as a cornerstone of economic growth, community well-being, and individual prosperity, as well as a fundamental element in international peace and security.

Al-Mazyed also acknowledged Saudi Arabia's long history of spearheading international initiatives to bolster cyberspace stability, hosting regional and international cybersecurity entities, and supporting strategic projects in the field. The selection of Riyadh to host the OIC cybersecurity ministerial council underscores the Islamic world's trust in Saudi Arabia's capacity to lead global initiatives and advance their strategic interests.