Saudi Arabia calls for inclusive regional security at Mediterranean-Gulf Summit

ROME — Saudi Arabia called for a more inclusive approach to regional security and renewed support for Palestinian statehood during the Mediterranean-Gulf Summit, titled A Strategic Dialogue for Stability and Economic Cooperation, held in Rome with the participation of officials, diplomats, and experts from the Gulf, the Middle East, and Europe.The Kingdom was represented by Dr. Manal Radwan, Minister Plenipotentiary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who said the region is undergoing a profound strategic transformation that requires new approaches to security and stability.She stressed that policies based on dominance or reliance solely on military force cannot achieve lasting security, calling instead for more comprehensive frameworks for dialogue, cooperation, and collective security.Radwan emphasized that the Palestinian issue remains central to any credible vision for regional security, warning that the worsening humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, continued settlement expansion and annexation efforts in the West Bank, and the erosion of final-status issues, particularly the status of Jerusalem, are undermining prospects for both regional and international stability.She said the legitimate national rights of the Palestinian people, foremost among them the right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent state, must form the foundation of any future political process. She added that ending the occupation and holding Israel accountable for its violations are essential to achieving a just peace and sustainable regional security.Radwan also underscored the importance of respecting state sovereignty, refraining from interference in the internal affairs of countries, and avoiding efforts to weaken or undermine state institutions.She highlighted the need to safeguard freedom of navigation, maritime security, and global supply chains while strengthening Gulf-European cooperation to address shared challenges in energy, the digital economy, and strategic infrastructure.Concluding her remarks, Radwan said meaningful progress requires coordinated collective action and strong regional and international partnerships capable of addressing the root causes of crises while advancing security, stability, and sustainable development across the region.