Syrian Intelligence Chief Meets with Saudi Interior Minister

Saudi Interior Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud met with Syrian officials to discuss enhanced cooperation in combating drug trafficking and security issues.

Riyadh, February 28, 2025 — On Thursday, Saudi Arabia’s Interior Minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz, welcomed Syrian officials at his ministry’s headquarters in Riyadh. The meeting was attended by Muwaffaq Doukhi Ma'awen, the head of Syria's intelligence service, and Khaled Eid, the director of Syria’s anti-narcotics department. The discussions centered on key issues of mutual interest, particularly cooperation in the fight against drug trafficking, an area of growing concern for both nations. The officials also explored ways to strengthen joint efforts in pursuing and apprehending drug traffickers operating across borders.

During their visit to Riyadh, the Syrian delegation toured the General Directorate of Public Security and the General Directorate of Narcotics Control, where they were briefed on the operational frameworks, security protocols, and advanced technologies currently in use by both Saudi agencies. The visit underscored the growing collaboration between the two countries in addressing shared security challenges, with a particular focus on enhancing operational efficiency and information exchange in combating illicit drug activities.

Several key Saudi officials were present during the meeting, underscoring the importance of the discussions and the broader regional security context. Both sides expressed a strong commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation and pursuing effective strategies to counter drug trafficking, which has become a significant concern in the region. The meeting highlighted the ongoing diplomatic and security cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Syria, with an emphasis on tackling transnational security threats and fostering closer ties between their respective security agencies.