Tehran, 18 April 2023 (TDI): The President of Iran, Ebrahim Raisi, has invited the King of Saudi Arabia Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud to visit the country in a historic development for the region.
The invitation comes after both countries agreed to normalize relations in a deal negotiated by China on 10 March 2023. The last visit by a Saudi King to Iran was more than 50 years ago, in 1966.
Saudi Arabia had invited Iran’s President in March, enthusiastically accepted by President Raisi. These invitations are considered a symbol of harmony and camaraderie between the two countries. They represent a significant milestone in creating greater trust and fostering closer ties between the two nations.
Also Read: Saudi Arabia invites Iran’s President for official visit
Technical delegations from both nations have already visited the embassies in Riyadh and Tehran and the consulates in Jeddah and Mashhad to begin reopening offices. Iran has declared that their embassy will resume operations on 9 May.
The Saudi and Iranian foreign ministries, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and Prince Faisal bin Farhan met in Beijing to discuss the implementation of the normalization of relations. According to the spokesperson, the Iranian and Saudi foreign ministers will meet again before the embassies reopen.
These dialogues demonstrate a commitment to the peace process and a shared desire to collaborate to create a mutual partnership. Additionally, it is anticipated that both countries will significantly reduce regional stresses and foster regional cooperation.
The news of Saudi Arabia and Iran resuming diplomatic relations has sparked hope for a more secure and peaceful Middle East. Both nations adhere to two different schools of Islam. They are significant and influential in the Muslim world. Their rivalry has frequently spawned sectarianism and extremism, impacting Muslim sentiment and unity.
The rehabilitation of diplomatic relations between the two countries sends an encouraging signal to the rest of the Muslim world that complicated rivalries and divides can be addressed through conversation and diplomacy.
It is a crucial step towards achieving peace and stability among Muslims across the region and the world. It will lead to de-escalation and the developing of an exchange and diplomacy culture in the Middle East. President Raisi’s historic invitation to Saudi King Salman will bring a new chapter in the two countries mutual admiration.
