Saudi FM at BRICS Summit: Gulf Stability Requires Respect for Sovereignty

Saudi Arabia's foreign minister said on Sunday that stability in the Arabian Gulf cannot be achieved without respecting the sovereignty and independence of its states, speaking on the second day of the BRICS summit in New Delhi.

Prince Faisal bin Farhan told assembled leaders and officials that lasting security in the region requires states to refrain from interfering in each other's affairs, to uphold the principles of good neighbourliness, and to settle disputes through peaceful means.

He emphasised that the Kingdom's national security, along with the integrity of its territory and resources, is not open to compromise. Gulf Cooperation Council states, he said, will not accept any targeting of their territories, facilities or interests, regardless of the pretexts or labels invoked.

The minister also underscored the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and other maritime passages. He noted that the stability of these routes is directly tied to energy security and the flow of international trade, warning that any disruption would have consequences reaching beyond the region to global markets, supply chains and economic growth.

The two-day gathering is taking place amid heightened concerns across the Gulf over regional security, energy supplies and international shipping, linked to the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran. Other conflicts, including the war in Ukraine, have also featured in the discussions.

BRICS brings together major emerging economies including Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, along with newer members of the expanding bloc. Saudi Arabia has taken part in BRICS meetings but has yet to formally confirm its membership.