Saudi Arabia says deal with Iran does not mean all issues resolved

By Zeynep Tufekci Gulay

ISTANBUL (AA) - Saudi Arabia said Sunday that its agreement with Iran to reestablish diplomatic relations "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.

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.

The two Persian Gulf neighbors 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 Friday to resume bilateral relations after several days of talks facilitated by the Chinese government.

*Ikram Imane Kouachi contributed to this report