Saudi Arabia is looking forward to a potential visit from Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, who has been invited by King Salman bin Abdulaziz, according to Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan. During a joint press conference with his Iranian counterpart in Riyadh, Iran’s Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian mentioned President Raisi’s interest in an official trip to Saudi Arabia. Amir-Abdollahian emphasised the importance of unified efforts for regional security and development.

This visit comes after a significant milestone in bilateral relations, as Iran and Saudi Arabia recently reached a diplomatic breakthrough facilitated by China. The deal aimed to mend years of strained ties and hostility, which had contributed to instability in the Gulf, Yemen, Syria, and Lebanon.

In 2016, Saudi Arabia severed diplomatic ties with Iran after an attack on its embassy in Tehran in response to the execution of a prominent Shiite cleric by Riyadh.

Prince Faisal also announced that ambassadors would assume their roles in the reopened embassies, marking the conclusion of the diplomatic rift and the reestablishment of relations between the two countries.

Expressing gratitude, Prince Faisal acknowledged Iran’s support for Saudi Arabia’s bid to host Expo 2030. He emphasised that the meeting between the two nations signified a crucial step in implementing the agreement to restore diplomatic ties and promote regional security.

Amir-Abdollahian highlighted the successful discussions with Saudi Arabia, underscoring their shared commitment to addressing immediate regional challenges collaboratively. He reiterated Tehran’s dedication to achieving stability and harmony in the region.