Resuming Diplomatic Ties Between Saudi Arabia And Iran

In a positive start towards mending fences after seven years of conflict, Saudi Arabia and Iran announced that they will be reopening embassies and resuming diplomatic relations.

To follow up on their discussions in Beijing, the foreign ministers of both countries issued a joint statement, declared the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning.

According to IRNA, the two long-standing regional opponents agreed to restore diplomatic representation in their capitals and in two other significant cities: Mashhad and Jeddah. According to the report, the two countries have agreed to investigate the possibility of restarting flights and official and private meetings and to look into ways to make the visa procedure easier for their citizens.

The development comes as officials struggle to resolve a protracted crisis in Yemen, one in which Iran and Saudi Arabia have substantial stakes.

As the United governments is seen by Gulf Arab governments as gradually receding from the broader area, the reconciliation not only reduces the likelihood of military confrontation between the Mid-east adversaries, but also signals a huge diplomatic gain for the Chinese.

Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud of Saudi Arabia and Hossein Amirabdollahian of Iran had a meeting to plan the reopening of embassies.

It was the first time top-level diplomats from both countries had met formally since the Saudis severed relations with Iran in the wake of protester attacks on Saudi embassies in 2016. The execution of a prominent Shiite cleric along with 46 others by Saudi Arabia sparked the protests.

In a press conference, Mao said that the improved relations prove that "regional countries have the will and ability to take the lead" in preserving peace.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry urged the global community to assist the Middle Eastern nations in resolving their issues, saying China is willing to support both parties in building mutually beneficial relationships.

 

Source: apnews.com