Saudi Vice Minister Joins ASEAN Treaty Conference in Manila

Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Waleed Elkhereiji represented Saudi Arabia at the High-Level Conference of High Contracting Parties to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC) in Manila, Philippines, on July 24, 2026. The conference, themed “Conflict Prevention and Preventive Diplomacy,” highlighted Saudi Arabia’s commitment to regional stability and multilateral cooperation.

Context and Background

The Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC) is a cornerstone of regional diplomacy, promoting peace, mutual respect, and non-interference among member states. Saudi Arabia’s participation underscores its growing engagement with ASEAN and its alignment with global diplomatic efforts to foster stability and economic integration.

Key Details

In his address, Vice Minister Elkhereiji emphasized the importance of dialogue, mutual confidence, and regional cooperation. He reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s support for ASEAN’s role in advancing peace and prosperity, citing progress from recent ASEAN Summits. Elkhereiji also condemned unlawful Iranian attacks and Houthi militia allegations, reiterating Saudi Arabia’s right to self-defense under UN Charter Article 51.

Implications and Impact

Saudi Arabia’s active participation in the TAC conference signals its strategic pivot toward strengthening ties with Southeast Asia. This aligns with broader efforts to enhance economic partnerships and regional security. The Kingdom’s condemnation of destabilizing actions reinforces its stance as a stabilizing force in the Gulf and beyond.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The Vice Minister highlighted how Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 prioritizes cooperation over confrontation, emphasizing economic partnerships as a pathway to lasting peace. By engaging in multilateral forums like the TAC, Saudi Arabia advances its Vision 2030 goals of global integration and sustainable development.

20 Questions

Q1. What was the theme of the TAC conference?

A1. The conference focused on “Conflict Prevention and Preventive Diplomacy,” emphasizing peaceful dispute resolution.

Q2. Who represented Saudi Arabia at the conference?

A2. Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Waleed Elkhereiji attended on behalf of Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan.

Q3. What is the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation?

A3. The TAC is a regional agreement promoting peace, mutual respect, and non-interference among Southeast Asian nations.

Q4. What role does Saudi Arabia see for ASEAN?

A4. Saudi Arabia recognizes ASEAN’s vital role in advancing peace, stability, and economic integration in the region.

Q5. What did Elkhereiji say about Iran?

A5. He condemned Iran’s unlawful attacks on oil tankers and critical infrastructure, reaffirming the right to self-defense.

Q6. How did Elkhereiji address Houthi allegations?

A6. He rejected false claims of a blockade on Yemen and condemned Houthi attacks on civilians and infrastructure.

Q7. What is Saudi Arabia’s stance on Yemen?

A7. The Kingdom supports the Yemeni people and their legitimate government, advocating for stability and peace.

Q8. How does Vision 2030 relate to the TAC?

A8. Vision 2030’s emphasis on cooperation aligns with TAC principles of dialogue and multilateralism.

Q9. What are the key principles of the TAC?

A9. The TAC promotes mutual respect, non-aggression, and peaceful conflict resolution among member states.

Q10. Who else attended the conference?

A10. Saudi Ambassador to the Philippines Faisal Al-Ghamdi was present, among other international delegates.

Q11. What is preventive diplomacy?

A11. Preventive diplomacy involves early intervention to prevent conflicts from escalating, a focus of the conference.

Q12. How does Saudi Arabia view multilateral cooperation?

A12. The Kingdom sees it as essential for addressing global challenges and fostering shared prosperity.

Q13. What economic benefits does Saudi Arabia seek with ASEAN?

A13. The Kingdom aims to unlock growth opportunities through enhanced trade and investment partnerships.

Q14. What was the venue for the conference?

A14. The event was held in Manila, the capital of the Philippines.

Q15. How does Saudi Arabia contribute to regional stability?

A15. Through diplomatic engagement, condemnation of aggression, and support for lawful governance.

Q16. What is the significance of Article 51?

A16. It affirms the right of states to self-defense under the UN Charter, as cited by Elkhereiji.

Q17. How does the TAC conference support Vision 2030?

A17. It aligns with Vision 2030’s goals of global integration and economic diversification.

Q18. What are ASEAN-GCC Summits?

A18. These summits foster cooperation between ASEAN and Gulf Cooperation Council members, including Saudi Arabia.

Q19. Why is freedom of navigation important to Saudi Arabia?

A19. It ensures the safe passage of oil and trade, critical to the Kingdom’s economy and global energy security.

Q20. What is Saudi Arabia’s long-term diplomatic goal?

A20. To strengthen partnerships, promote peace, and advance shared prosperity through dialogue and cooperation.

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