Saudi Arabia and Spain have elevated their bilateral ties with the creation of a Strategic Partnership Council during the visit of Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan to Madrid. The new council will coordinate cooperation in political and security affairs, defense, transport, economy and trade, energy, and culture, marking a significant step forward in a relationship rooted in longstanding friendship and shared interests.

Both countries also signed an agreement to exempt holders of diplomatic, special, and service passports from visa requirements, facilitating closer institutional exchanges. Discussions covered regional and international issues, as well as strengthened engagement between the European Union and the Gulf Cooperation Council. Spain reiterated its solidarity with Saudi Arabia following recent Iranian attacks and highlighted Saudi Arabia’s importance as its leading commercial partner in the region.

The two nations emphasized their shared commitment to multilateralism, international law, and the United Nations Charter, calling for dialogue and de escalation in regional conflicts including Gaza, Lebanon, and the Gulf. Spain praised Saudi Arabia’s role in promoting peace and stability, its involvement in the Palestinian issue, and its modernization drive under Vision 2030, while reaffirming support for Expo 2030 in Riyadh.