Statement by NSC Spokesperson Caitlin Hayden on National Security Advisor Susan E. Rice and Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Lisa Monaco’s Meeting with Saudi Minister of Interior Prince Mohammed bin Nayef bin Abd al Az

Yesterday, Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs Susan E. Rice and Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Lisa Monaco hosted His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Nayef bin Abd al Aziz al Saud, Minister of Interior of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, for meetings at the White House.  They discussed issues of importance in the strategic relationship between the United States and Saudi Arabia, including our robust security cooperation and efforts to address violent extremism and to counter terrorism across the Middle East.  They also exchanged views on regional issues and committed to continuing to strengthen our cooperation on a range of common interests.  President Obama will travel to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in March to meet with His Majesty King Abdullah bin Abd al Aziz Al-Saud as part of regular consultations between our two countries.