Jeddah, 9 June 2023 (TDI): Iran’s Consulate General in Jeddah and its Permanent Mission to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) were formally reopened during a ceremony held on June 8, 2023, in a significant development illustrating the progress of diplomatic endeavors between Iran and Saudi Arabia.
Officials of both countries attended the event, which was an encouraging sign for the future of bilateral ties. Hassan Zarnegar, the embassy’s caretaker, and Alireza Bikdeli, the deputy foreign minister for consular, parliamentary, and Iranian expatriates’ affairs, joined the ceremony.
The Head of the Iranian Hajj and Pilgrimage Organization, Abbas Hosseini, the Consulate General, Permanent Mission caretakers, and Mazen bin Hamad al-Hamoudi, the Head of the Saudi Foreign Ministry Office in Jeddah, were also present.
Furthermore, Consul Generals in Jeddah, officials of Muslim countries’ delegations to the OIC, and caretakers of the affairs of Iranian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia were there, indicating widespread support for this momentous step.
The Iranian Permanent Mission to the OIC has resumed operations following fruitful negotiations in Baghdad, reiterating Iran’s dedication to the OIC and its mission of fostering cooperation and unity among Muslim countries.
The re-opening of the Consulate General in Jeddah is a historic event, especially since it coincides with the departure of Iranian pilgrims for the Hajj ceremonies. At the ceremony, the Iranian flag was raised over the diplomatic mission to symbolize the strides made to strengthen ties with Saudi Arabia and foster greater comprehension between the two countries.
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On March 11, Saudi Arabia and Iran officially announced the resumption of diplomatic connections, marking a significant turning point in the quest for stability and peace in the Middle East.
This momentous accord, facilitated by China’s commendable diplomatic efforts, holds immense promise for fostering a more harmonious atmosphere within the region and throughout the wider Muslim world.
Iran expresses its gratitude to the Saudi Arabian authorities for their support and cooperation throughout this process. Both nations are devoted to laying the groundwork for future collaboration and engagement on various bilateral and regional issues by establishing trust and understanding.
As the Consulate General and Permanent Mission start operations, they will continue to be essential conduits for diplomatic engagements, consular services, and developing people-to-people relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia and Iran are the two most powerful states in the Muslim world, and restoring diplomatic ties have profound consequences. This development holds great potential for fostering peace, stability, and harmony in the Middle East region.
By establishing diplomatic ties, Saudi Arabia and Iran sent the Muslim world a strong message that underscores the potential for complicated conflicts and differences to be resolved via dialogue and diplomacy. This landmark victory raises the prospect of a more united and cohesive Muslim community.
