Saudi Arabia is urging the global community to enhance international collaboration to prevent terrorist groups from exploiting artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. At a United Nations General Assembly session focused on strategic capacity building, Abdulaziz Alwasil, Saudi Arabia’s Permanent Representative to the UN, stressed the importance of nations uniting to share expertise, bolster national capabilities, and invest in long-term initiatives that address evolving security threats. Alwasil pointed out that the rapid advancement of technology presents new opportunities for extremist groups to recruit, spread propaganda, fund their activities, and plan attacks.
Particularly highlighting Yemen, Alwasil expressed concern over terrorist organizations like the Houthi militia and Al-Qaeda seeking to leverage technologies such as drones. He underscored the necessity for governments to enhance their preparedness to keep up with increasingly sophisticated methods used by these networks. Alwasil emphasized that effective counterterrorism requires more than just military and security measures; strong institutions, modern legal frameworks, and international partnerships are crucial. Furthermore, investing in human and technical expertise is essential in combating terrorism and violent extremism.
Alwasil advocated for capacity-building efforts to be tailored to the specific needs and priorities of each country and implemented in close coordination with their governments to ensure sustainable impacts. He also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s significant contributions to global counterterrorism efforts. The Kingdom played a pivotal role in establishing the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre in 2011 and has contributed $110 million to support member states in executing the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. Saudi Arabia remains actively involved in various initiatives, including the Global Counterterrorism Forum, the Global Coalition to Defeat Daesh, and the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition.
Additionally, the Kingdom has set up the Global Center for Combating Extremist Ideology, known as Etidal, which employs advanced technology to monitor extremist content, counter online propaganda, and raise public awareness. Alwasil also mentioned Saudi Arabia’s ongoing support for Yemen’s internationally recognized government, stating that the Kingdom has worked to fortify the country’s security institutions in collaboration with local authorities. These efforts have enhanced the ability to disrupt financial and logistical networks supporting terrorist groups and prevent the transfer of advanced technology and military capabilities to extremists.
According to Alwasil, these initiatives have significantly contributed to greater security and stability by limiting opportunities for terrorist organizations to exploit regional instability and expand their operations. By focusing on these comprehensive strategies, Saudi Arabia aims to play a critical role in the global fight against terrorism and violent extremism, promoting a collaborative approach to countering these threats.