Saudi Arabia signs Defense Cooperation Plan with Britain

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By Shilpa Annie Joseph, Official Reporter
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Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman and British Secretary of Defense Mr. Ben Wallace have signed the defense cooperation plan during their meeting at the headquarters of the British Ministry of Defense.

During the meeting, they reviewed the strategic and historical relations between the two friendly countries and discussed aspects of bilateral cooperation in the military and defense field, in addition to discussing a number of issues of common interest, and the latest developments at the regional and international levels.

The defense cooperation plan aims to develop the capabilities of the Saudi Ministry of Defense as well as to localize military industries, and strengthen the partnership between the two countries in the military and defense sector.

According to the statement, “Aspects of bilateral cooperation in the military and defense field were figured mainly in their talks.” The British Ministry of Defense said that the agreement reaffirms the UK’s enduring commitment to working with Saudi Arabia on promoting regional security and stability.

Mr. Wallace stated that, “It is a pleasure to sign this Plan for Defense Cooperation, bringing us even closer to one of our most important partners. It is a key milestone between our two nations, as we look to enhance our defence partnership further in support of mutual and regional security.”

The meeting and signing of the defense cooperation plan were attended by Prince Khalid bin Bandar bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz, Saudi Ambassador to the United Kingdom; Chief of the General Staff Lieutenant General Fayyadh bin Hamed Al-Ruwaili, and several senior military and civilian officials.

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