Saudi FM in Tehran as part of restoration of diplomatic ties after 7-year rift

Saudi Arabia’s top diplomat arrived in the Iranian capital on Saturday, the latest step in restoring diplomatic ties

Tehran: Saudi Arabia’s top diplomat arrived in the Iranian capital on Saturday, according to Iranian state media, the latest move by the two Middle Eastern rivals to restore diplomatic ties.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan was formally welcomed by Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabudolashian, Iranian TV reported.

He also delivered a message from the Saudi king to Iranian President Ibrahim Raisy. The two are scheduled to meet later on Saturday.

Prince Faisal is expected to officially inaugurate the Saudi embassy in Tehran later on Saturday. The employees were working at a hotel in Tehran until the mission was completed, Iranian television reported.

Both countries have reopened their diplomatic missions in recent weeks.

In March, Iran and Saudi Arabia agreed to rebuild diplomatic relations after seven years of tension.
It was a major diplomatic breakthrough facilitated by China, reducing the likelihood of further conflict between Riyadh and Tehran — either directly or by proxy in the region.