New york: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the National Cybersecurity Authority and its Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York, participated in the 11th and final substantive session of the Open-ended Working Group (OEWG) on the Security of and in the Use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). The session took place at the UN Headquarters in New York from July 7 to 11, 2025. According to Saudi Press Agency, the session addressed several key cybersecurity issues within the framework of international security. These included current and emerging threats, norms and principles for responsible state behavior in cyberspace, and mechanisms to enhance trust and build confidence among nations. The discussions also highlighted the importance of ongoing capacity-building efforts to support global initiatives aimed at combating cyber threats. During its intervention, Saudi Arabia emphasized the critical need for institutionalizing regular dialogue under the UN framework to build o n existing progress in cybersecurity and reinforce collective international action. The Kingdom reaffirmed its commitment to fostering comprehensive global cooperation to address cyber risks and contribute to regional and international initiatives aimed at strengthening cybersecurity frameworks. Furthermore, the Kingdom underscored its role in launching the Global Cybersecurity Forum Foundation, which promotes international initiatives supporting human and societal prosperity in the digital domain. It also highlighted the establishment of the Council of Arab Cybersecurity Ministers, headquartered in Riyadh, a move welcomed by Arab leaders following its endorsement at the 33rd Arab League Summit held in Manama, Bahrain, on May 16, 2024. The session concluded with an agreement to develop an international mechanism under the UN General Assembly First Committee on Disarmament and International Security. This mechanism aims to advance responsible state behavior in cyberspace and address evolving challenges withi n the global security system.
