Tunis: His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik has been honored with the "Prince Naif Arab Security Medal of Excellent Class" by the Council of Arab Interior Ministers, marking the highest accolade in Arab security.
This prestigious medal was awarded to His Majesty in recognition of his significant contributions to strengthening the ties of fraternity and cooperation among Arab nations, as well as his support for peace and stability in the region.
Sayyid Hamoud bin Faisal Al Busaidi, the Minister of Interior, received the medal on behalf of His Majesty while leading the Sultanate of Oman’s delegation at the 42nd meeting of the Arab Interior Ministers, which took place in Tunisia today.
In a statement to Oman News Agency (ONA), Al Busaidi emphasized that this esteemed medal reflects profound appreciation for His Majesty's efforts in uniting responses to security challenges with wisdom and foresight. He remarked that this recognition underscores the Sultan’s commitment to enhancing national, regional, and international security frameworks.
He further stated, “This honor reinforces the Sultanate of Oman's leading role in Arab security initiatives,” and affirmed that Oman will persist in supporting all endeavors that promote security collaboration among Arab nations, fulfilling the aspirations of the Arab populace for a life of peace and dignity.
The meeting commenced with remarks from Khaled Al Nouri, the Tunisian Minister of Interior, who represented the President of the Tunisian Republic and extended a warm welcome to the Arab Ministers of Interior.
Al Nouri emphasized his nation's commitment to supporting all initiatives that aim to enhance cooperation and Arab collaboration across various sectors, particularly in the area of security.
Dr. Mohammed bin Ali Kuman, Secretary-General of the Arab Interior Ministers Council, noted in his address that 2024 has witnessed significant advancements in security initiatives under the auspices of the Arab Interior Ministers Council and its associated entities.
He further mentioned that the Secretariat General of the Arab Interior Ministers Council has implemented essential measures to bolster efforts aimed at preventing drug abuse, thereby protecting Arab societies from the severe repercussions of such activities.
The ministerial meeting also addressed additional topics related to strengthening the integrity of joint Arab security cooperation and aligning security policies among member states to tackle contemporary challenges such as terrorism and organized crime.
Furthermore, the meeting explored ways to share expertise in cybersecurity and improve security and stability within the region.
Discussions included the projects outlined in the 11th phased plan of the Arab Strategy to Combat the Illicit Use of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, the 7th phased plan of the Arab Strategy for Civil Protection (Civil Defense), and the draft of the second phased plan of the Arab Strategy to Address Cybersecurity Crimes.
Margarida Blasco, Minister of Interior of the Portuguese Republic, was also present at the meeting.
The gathering saw participation from Arab Interior Ministers, delegates from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), the Arab Maghreb Union, INTERPOL, the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, and Europol.
The Omani delegation accompanying the Minister of Interior comprised Maj. Gen. Abdullah bin Ali Al Harthy, Assistant Inspector General of Police and Customs for Operations, Dr. Hilal bin Abdullah Al Sinani, the Sultanate of Oman's Ambassador to Tunisia, along with other officials from the Ministry of Interior and the Royal Oman Police.
