Saudi Arabia has said that agreement to reestablish diplomatic relations with Iran “does not mean that all issues have been resolved”.
The agreement is an indication of the common desire to resolve issues through dialogue and diplomacy, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan told the Asharq Al Awsat newspaper on Sunday.
The minister noted that Saudi Arabia is preparing to restart relations with Iran in two months and that mutual visits can be made in the future.
Referring to the role of China in the agreement, bin Farhan said that Saudi Arabia has common interests with Beijing and Tehran in creating an environment of security and stability in the region.
In a statement following Friday’s announcement, Iran and Saudi Arabia thanked the People’s Republic of China for hosting and supporting the latest round of peace talks. Photo: AA
Arab leaders from across the Middle East hope the restoration of ties between the long-time rivals helps advance peace and security in the region.
READ: Arab countries laud Saudi Arabia, Iran decision to normalise relations
The two Persian Gulf neighbours severed ties after the Saudi diplomatic mission in Tehran was attacked by an angry mob in January 2016 following the execution of prominent Saudi Shia cleric Sheikh Nimr Al Nimr.
The two countries were engaged in marathon talks since April 2021 to restore ties.
The talks were brokered by Iraq.
Iran and Saudi Arabia agreed on March 10 to resume bilateral relations after several days of talks facilitated by the Chinese government.
Riyadh cut ties with Tehran after Iranian protesters attacked Saudi diplomatic missions in the country in 2016 following the Saudi execution of Shia cleric Nimr al-Nimr. Photo: AFP
The agreement comes amid efforts by diplomats to end a years-long war in Yemen, a conflict in which both Iran and Saudi Arabia are deeply entrenched on opposite sides.
READ: Iran, Saudi Arabia agree to resume diplomatic ties after tensions
Source: TRT World and agencies. 13 March 2023.