Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN, Dr. Abdulaziz Alwasil, recently addressed the UN Security Council to emphasize the critical need for a secure and reliable cyberspace that supports growth and prosperity. He highlighted the importance of global cybersecurity efforts in safeguarding nations’ vital interests and national security. Alwasil called for strengthened international cooperation to mitigate cyber risks, advocating for a serious and practical approach to unifying global efforts against cyberspace threats through relevant UN committees and specialized bodies.
Dr. Alwasil also shared the significant progress made by Saudi Arabia in the cybersecurity sector, aligning with Vision 2030 goals. He noted that the Kingdom has developed a “Saudi model” in cybersecurity based on centralized governance and decentralized operability. Saudi Arabia has achieved a global ranking of second place, and first in the Arab world, the Middle East, and Asia, according to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Global Cybersecurity Index. Additionally, the Kingdom secured second place in the World Competitiveness Yearbook’s cybersecurity indicator for two consecutive years (2022 and 2023) and claimed the top spot this year.
Furthermore, Alwasil highlighted the establishment of the Global Cybersecurity Forum (GCF) and the GCF Institute in Riyadh, dedicated to strengthening cybersecurity internationally. He emphasized Saudi Arabia’s commitment to regional cooperation in cybersecurity enhancement, citing the establishment of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Cybersecurity Ministerial Committee and the League of Arab States (LAS) Arab Cybersecurity Ministerial Council, both led by Saudi Arabia. These initiatives demonstrate the Kingdom’s dedication to fostering collaboration and innovation in cybersecurity.
In conclusion, Dr. Abdulaziz Alwasil’s remarks at the UN Security Council debate underscore the critical importance of global cybersecurity efforts in maintaining a secure and reliable cyberspace. Saudi Arabia’s achievements in the cybersecurity sector, as highlighted by Alwasil, reflect the Kingdom’s commitment to advancing cybersecurity capabilities and fostering international cooperation. Through initiatives such as the Global Cybersecurity Forum and regional collaborations, Saudi Arabia is playing a leading role in enhancing cybersecurity on a global scale. As cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, Alwasil’s call for unified efforts and practical strategies is crucial in addressing the challenges posed by cyberspace.
