NATO Envoy Concludes Inaugural Visit to Saudi Arabia, Discussing Regional Stability and Enhanced Engagement

Inaugural Visit to Riyadh

Javier Colomina, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) Special Representative for the Southern Neighbourhood, concluded his first official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on February 11, 2026. The two-day visit, which commenced on February 10, aimed at fostering dialogue on regional stability and exploring avenues for deeper engagement between NATO and Saudi Arabia.

During his time in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, Mr. Colomina engaged with several high-ranking Saudi officials. He met with General Fayyad Hamed Al-Ruwaili, the Chief of Staff of the Saudi Armed Forces, where both parties underscored the importance of regional stability and exchanged views on topics of mutual interest.

Key Discussions and Engagements

Acknowledging Saudi Arabia's pivotal role as a regional power, the Special Representative also held discussions with Waleed Bin Abdulkarim al-Khereiji (also known as Waleed Elkhereiji), the Deputy Foreign Minister, and Dr. Sayyah Al-Bayali, the Deputy Head of Intelligence Affairs.

A significant part of the visit included a stop at the Headquarters of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in Riyadh. Here, Mr. Colomina shared perspectives with Dr. Abdulaziz Aluweisheg, the GCC's Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs and Negotiations, with a particular focus on strengthening NATO-GCC relations.

Furthermore, upon invitation from Saudi authorities, Mr. Colomina also visited the World Defense Show exhibition, highlighting the broader scope of engagement during his visit.

Context of NATO's Southern Neighbourhood Strategy

Mr. Colomina's role as the Special Representative for the Southern Neighbourhood was established in July 2024, marking the first time NATO has had a dedicated focal point for its work in the region. This appointment is part of NATO's broader Southern Neighbourhood Action Plan, adopted at the Washington Summit in July 2024, which seeks a stronger, more strategic, and results-oriented approach towards the Middle East, North Africa, and Sahel regions. His responsibilities include enhancing NATO's dialogue and cooperation with these regions and coordinating the Alliance's efforts.

This visit follows a previous significant engagement when NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg made his first visit to Saudi Arabia in late 2023, signaling a growing interest in formalizing closer ties between NATO and the Kingdom. Saudi Arabia is also recognized as a Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA) of the United States, further underscoring its strategic importance in regional security dynamics.