EU Delegation Visits Global Center for Combating Extremist Ideology in Riyadh
A high-profile delegation from the EU’s Political and Security Committee, led by chair Delphine Pronk, recently made an official visit to the Global Center for Combating Extremist Ideology in Riyadh.
The center’s secretary-general, Mansour Al-Shammari, warmly welcomed the delegation and engaged in discussions on various strategies to combat extremism.
According to the Saudi Press Agency, the EU members were given insights into the center’s comprehensive approach towards combating extremist ideology and minimizing its negative impact and influence.
Additionally, they were briefed on the center’s community initiatives and international partnerships aimed at promoting tolerance and fostering a culture of moderation.
The meeting was graced by the presence of distinguished personalities such as EU Special Representative for the Gulf Luigi Di Maio, European External Action Service Managing Director for the Middle East and North Africa Helene Le Gal, EU Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Christophe Farnaud, and Saudi Ambassador to the EU Haifa Al-Jedea.
Prior to their visit to the Global Center, the EU delegation also paid a visit to the Gulf Cooperation Council’s headquarters in Riyadh, where they met Secretary-General Jasem Al-Budaiwi to discuss shared interests and collaborative efforts in addressing global challenges.
Topics of discussion ranged from regional issues like Israel, Gaza, Lebanon, Gulf security, Iran, maritime security in the Red Sea, Iraq, Sudan, the Horn of Africa, to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.
Moreover, the delegation had a fruitful meeting with Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Climate Envoy Adel Al-Jubeir to delve into matters concerning climate change, environmental cooperation, and the reinforcement of joint efforts in these crucial areas. They also reviewed recent foreign policy developments in Europe and the Middle East.