Cybersecurity is becoming a shared priority for countries seeking to safeguard their national interests and reinforce their ability to navigate an increasingly interconnected world.
Against this backdrop, the 52nd session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation’s (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers approved the establishment of a cybersecurity ministerial council, following a Saudi proposal.
Riyadh at the Center of Cybersecurity Cooperation
The council will set an institutional framework for strengthening cooperation among the OIC’s 57 member states, along with a mandate to further enhance national security, protect vital interests, and elevate their representation in international organizations concerned with cybersecurity.
Serving as the OIC’s principal body for cybersecurity-related matters, the council will operate as a subsidiary institution within the organization.
Remarkably, Riyadh will host both its general secretariat and executive office, each headed by a representative of the host country.
As for its membership, it will comprise the cybersecurity authorities of OIC member states, establishing a formal channel for coordination among national bodies.
The initiative comes amid a global rise in cyber threats, which increasingly expose critical infrastructure, essential government services, and other priority sectors to potential risks.
Majed Al-Mazyed, governor of Saudi Arabia’s National Cybersecurity Authority, spotlighted these growing challenges as a key consideration behind the Saudi proposal.
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Al-Mazyed underscored the broader significance of cybersecurity, labeling it as an essential driver of economic growth, community well-being, and individual prosperity, as well as a cornerstone of international peace and security.
His remarks placed the OIC initiative within a wider context in which digital security is increasingly linked to countries’ economic and social stability.
He also acknowledged the Saudi leadership’s support for the cybersecurity sector, expressing appreciation for its continued commitment.
Al-Mazyed expressed gratitude for the National Cybersecurity Authority’s Board of Directors, chaired by Minister of State and Cabinet Member Musaed Al-Aiban, for its ongoing oversight and attention to the sector.
Riyadh Strengthens Its Global Cybersecurity Role
Saudi Arabia’s drive in this field also draws on its distinctive involvement in international initiatives, the hosting of regional and global cybersecurity entities, and unwavering support for strategic projects aimed at strengthening stability in cyberspace, Al-Mazyed noted.
Riyadh’s designation as the headquarters of the OIC cybersecurity ministerial council signals confidence among member states in Saudi Arabia’s capacity to lead international initiatives and advance shared strategic objectives, Al-Mazyed said.
He noted that the decision could also create further opportunities to boost cooperation across the organization, including in cybersecurity and other areas of mutual interest.
The move builds on Saudi Arabia’s involvement in establishing regional and international cybersecurity institutions.
These include the Global Cybersecurity Forum (GCF) and the Arab Cybersecurity Ministers Council, established following a Saudi proposal, with Riyadh hosting its secretariat and executive office.
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