Saudi FM Signs Strategic Dialogue Pact with Germany, Holds Talks with UK and Bahrain

Saudi Arabia and Germany agreed to establish a strategic dialogue at foreign-minister level as concerns over regional security and maritime navigation remain central to their discussions.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan signed the memorandum with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul in Berlin. The agreement is intended to strengthen consultation and coordination and advance relations across various fields.

The two ministers reviewed the historical and bilateral ties between their countries, along with economic and trade relations. They discussed bilateral trade volumes and ways to increase them, as well as opportunities to expand cooperation and investment across different sectors.

Regional developments also featured prominently. The ministers stressed the importance of the security and safety of international waterways, freedom of maritime navigation and restoring normal conditions in the Strait of Hormuz. They reaffirmed support for peaceful and diplomatic solutions to regional and international crises.

Prince Faisal separately spoke by phone with UK Foreign Secretary Edward Miliband and Bahraini Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani. The Saudi-British call covered bilateral cooperation, regional and international developments, and efforts to de-escalate tensions. The ministers also highlighted the importance of protecting international waterways, supply chains and international trade. The call with Bahrain focused on regional developments and efforts to maintain security and stability.