UK Defense Secretary John Healey Meets Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid to Strengthen Bilateral Defense Ties and Discuss Regional Stability

British Defense Secretary John Healey met with Saudi Arabia's Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman in Riyadh on Thursday to discuss strengthening bilateral defense cooperation and promoting stability in the Middle East.

The two leaders held talks about enhancing Saudi-British strategic partnerships and expanding defense collaboration. During the meeting, Prince Khalid emphasized the importance of joint efforts to address regional challenges and promote both regional and international security and stability.

According to Saudi Press Agency, the discussions also focused on reinforcing the long-standing defense relationship between the two countries. Healey reiterated the UK's commitment to a forward-looking defense relationship with Saudi Arabia, underscoring the significance of cooperation on security priorities.

This visit marks Healey's first trip to Riyadh since becoming the UK Defense Secretary following the Labour Party’s victory in the July elections. It is believed that the ongoing efforts to establish a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon were also discussed during the meeting with Prince Khalid.

Before his visit to Saudi Arabia, Healey met with Turkey's Defense Minister Yasar Guler in Ankara, continuing his engagements with NATO allies.