Russia and Saudi Arabia enhance cooperation in the field of emergencies and advanced technologies

Prospects for bilateral cooperation in the field of emergency prevention and response, training of specialists, development of technologies, and interaction within the framework of the International Civil Defense Organization were discussed.

Korenkov noted that previously reached agreements are being implemented consistently: “Our specialists are in constant communication on a wide range of issues and are always ready to provide each other with systematic and practical assistance. This level of interaction creates good opportunities for further joint work.”

In July of this year, representatives of educational and scientific institutions affiliated with the Russian Ministry of Emergencies visited Riyadh, where they were briefed on the organization of the work of Saudi colleagues. The visit resulted in the formation of proposals for specialized joint activities until 2029.

The head of the Russian Emergencies Ministry noted: “This intensive exchange of delegations indicates that relations between the emergency services of our two countries are at the highest level.”

One of the directions of this cooperation is the development of technologies and innovations. In particular, representatives of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia actively participated in the International “Comprehensive Security” Salon in Kazan, where modern solutions were presented in the field of artificial intelligence, robotics, drones, early warning systems, prevention and monitoring of emergency situations.

"The latest innovations should find practical application in the work of firefighters and rescuers. They make it possible to increase the effectiveness of the response and ensure the safety of specialists at the same time. We know that you are also actively developing this direction and widely applying modern technologies in your work," Korenkov stressed.

The two parties paid special attention to training emergency services specialists and raising their qualifications.

“We are ready to use the potential of our educational institutions for joint work and receive colleagues from Saudi Arabia in vocational training and qualification-upgrading programs,” Korenkov said. “I would like to invite your specialists to undergo comprehensive qualification-upgrading programs on the basis of a unique training center equipped with modern simulation complexes, which we opened in Kazan within the framework of the ‘Comprehensive Security’ salon.”

The two officials also discussed issues of safety of fuel and energy complex facilities, which are of great importance for the economic stability of both countries. “The training of specialists and practical training in procedures in emergency situations are especially important here,” the head of the Russian Ministry noted.

For this purpose, the Russian Emergencies Ministry has a specialized training field in Orenburg, where specialists are trained in procedures for extinguishing oil product tanks. The two parties expressed mutual interest in exchanging experiences in this direction.

One of the opportunities to acquire professional skills is the sport of firefighting and rescue, the development of which the emergency departments in both countries pay great attention to. Riyadh hosted the World Championship last year, and the teams of the Russian Ministry of Emergencies achieved successful results in the competitions, winning the title of winners. The strongest teams will meet again in competitions in November this year in Azerbaijan.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the two parties confirmed their interest in developing cooperation through the emergency services line.