Saudi, Turkish interior ministers discuss boosting security cooperation

Saudi and Turkish interior ministers convened in Ankara to bolster security cooperation and tackle shared concerns. The meeting featured a dialogue between Saudi Minister of Interior Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif and Turkish Minister of Interior Mustafa Çalışkan. Abdulaziz bin Saud stressed the need to deepen existing security ties between Saudi Arabia and Turkey, in line with directives from King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

He emphasized the longstanding brotherly relations between the nations as a model for cooperation across various domains, citing the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement as evidence of their shared strategic interests in the current geopolitical climate. The discussions centered on bolstering security cooperation, countering terrorist and extremist groups, and curbing cross-border crimes like drug trafficking and distribution.

Both parties underscored the importance of strengthening their security partnership and coordinating efforts to address security challenges in alignment with their respective leadership's objectives. Accompanying the Saudi delegation were Prince Bandar bin Abdullah bin Mashari, the Saudi Ambassador to Turkey Fahd bin Asaad Abu Al-Nasr, and multiple high-ranking officials.

The Turkish side was represented by Deputy Minister of Interior Dr. Muhammed Cangir, Gendarmerie Director General Ali Jirdakci, National Police Director General Ali Fidan, and other senior officials.