Reid Welcomes Deepening of Broader UK/Saudi Bilateral Relationship

UK Ministry of Defence, John Reid paid his second visit to Saudi Arabia as Defence Secretary on 20-21 December for a series of high level talks with the Saudi leadership. 
 
The Defence Secretary was received by King Abdullah, where both sides reiterated the importance of the longstanding relationship that exists between the two countries. Talks, which encompassed a wide range of topics, primarily focused on regional issues, including the situation in Iraq, both countries commitment to fighting terrorism and the Middle East Peace Process. 
 
Following a separate meeting with Crown Prince Sultan, Saudi Arabia's long serving Defence Minister, John Reid said: 
 
“We remain committed to supporting the modernisation of Saudi Arabia's armed forces and further developing the longstanding relationship between both our respective Governments and the British and Saudi armed forces. The understanding in regard to the supply of Typhoon aircraft to the RSAF is testament to that” 
 
In a meeting with the Saudi Foreign Minister, Prince Saud Al Faisal, discussions ranged from the GCC Summit in Abu Dhabi, which King Abdullah attended earlier this week and the Defence Secretary's recent visit to Iraq. The Iraqi elections and its implications were discussed in detail, both sides keen to ensure that they provide a stepping stone for the provision of a secure and stable environment, where the Iraqi people, Sunni and Shia, can live together. Discussions also touched on recent developments in the area, including regional border security and Iran. 
 
The busy schedule also saw Prince Muhammad bin Naif, Saudi Arabia's Counter Terrorism Minister, thank Dr Reid for the help and support offered by the UK in Saudi Arabia's campaign to eradicate the threat from Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula. In turn, the Defence Secretary praised the model campaign conducted by the Saudi authorities to combat Al Qaeda, where they have achieved some notable successes over the past few years. 
 
John Reid said: 
 
“The UK appreciates the efforts made by the Saudi authorities to protect British nationals in the Kingdom and welcomes the continuing and fruitful exchange of information between our two countries on all matters relating to terrorism. Prince Muhammad was among the first to offer help in the aftermath of the London bombings and that terrible event has reinforced our mutual determination to stand together side by side in our fight against terrorism and the people that perpetrate it wherever that may be” 
 
On a visit to the Saudi Development and Training (SDT) facility near Riyadh Airport, the Defence Secretary was able to witness firsthand young Saudis training to be highly skilled aircraft technicians. SDT runs a rigorous two year course for the apprentice technicians. John Reid reasserted the UK's commitment to this important process of helping with the transfer of key skills to a new generation of Saudis. 
 
The Defence Secretary was accompanied by Sir Jock Stirrup, Chief of the Air Staff, who met with RSAF counterparts to discuss a range of bilateral issues.