Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has described Iran and Saudi Arabia as two “influential countries” in the region and the broader Islamic world, and called for the utilization of existing capacities to further enhance relations between Tehran and Riyadh.

The president made the remarks on Monday as he met with Alireza Enayati, Iran’s new ambassador to Saudi Arabia, who will leave Tehran for Riyadh on Tuesday.

President Raisi reaffirmed the Islamic Republic’s commitment to improving relations with its neighboring countries and underscored the crucial roles played by both Iran and Saudi Arabia in the region and the Islamic world.

“Collaboration between Iran and Saudi Arabia, alongside increased regional cooperation at bilateral and multilateral levels, particularly in matters concerning the Islamic world, will enhance the standing of regional nations,” he stated.

Raisi also noted that improved regional cooperation would inevitably reduce foreign interference in regional affairs.

Iran and Saudi Arabia agreed to restore their diplomatic relations in March under a deal brokered by China, following a seven-year break in bilateral ties.

Source: Agencies