KSA spends SR619bn to secure its borders, maintain peace

RIYADH: A report by the American Institute for Economics and Peace stated that Saudi Arabia occupies eighth place internationally in terms of the cost posed to the country by the need to fight violence and terrorism, which is estimated at SR619 billion, according to a prominent security expert. The report noted that 90 percent of the cost is associated with spending on armaments to protect the borders of the Kingdom. Overall, the expenditures are related to security protection and fighting terrorism internally, according to media sources. The report added that the remaining 10 percent is earmarked to cover human losses due to terror operations. One security expert interpreted this to mean financial compensation to the victims and their families. The report however said this percentage is low compared to the international average, adding that the location of Saudi Arabia surrounded by states in turmoil to its north and south increase the costs indirectly.