RIYADH: Saudi Arabia, represented by Majid Al-Mazid, governor of the National Cybersecurity Authority, chaired the inaugural session of the Council of Arab Cybersecurity Ministers in Riyadh on Monday.

The participants included senior officials and ministers responsible for cybersecurity in member states of the Arab League, as well as Ahmed Aboul Gheit, the organization’s secretary-general.

In his opening speech, Al-Mazid emphasized the Kingdom’s commitment to enhancing Arab security through collaboration in the cybersecurity sector, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

He added that the Saudi proposal that led to the establishment of the council was rooted in a vision for safeguarding the vital interests of the region and fostering cooperation among Arab nations.

Al-Mazid said cybersecurity is not only a pillar of national security but essential for ensuring prosperity, development and stability across the Arab world.

“The Arab leaders’ support for the establishment of this council is a clear affirmation of the importance of cybersecurity in creating a secure and prosperous future for our countries,” he added.

Al-Mazid thanked King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their support and guidance in promoting Arab cooperation and enhancing regional security.

Aboul Gheit underscored the sense of urgency required in efforts to strengthen joint Arab efforts relating to cybersecurity, particularly in the face of evolving global threats and challenges.

He said that collective action will be key to building a resilient and secure cybersecurity framework for the region, expressed confidence that the council will prove to be a vital addition to Arab national security systems, and commended Saudi Arabia for its leadership in launching the initiative.

The council reviewed a number of working papers submitted by member states and made several key decisions during its inaugural session. One of the primary outcomes was the initiation of efforts to develop an Arab Cybersecurity Strategy, with the aim of providing a unified approach to challenges across the region.

The council also approved plans for member states to conduct joint cyber-related exercises, and the operational structure and mechanisms of the council were formalized.