Expanding Relationships and Regional Collaboration to be Discussed between Tehran and Riyadh
In a significant development, Ali Larijani, Iran's influential Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC), visited Riyadh this week. This marks Larijani's third foreign destination, following visits to Iraq, Lebanon, and Russia.
The visit comes amidst an improvement in relations between Tehran and Riyadh, a development that has been in the making since 2022. This improvement is due to an agreement mediated by China.
Larijani's meeting with Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman was marked by discussions on defense cooperation, expansion of economic ties, and solutions for regional stability. The two parties have decided to advance their bilateral economic and defense ties, with working groups to be established to follow up the discussions and agreements reached in Riyadh.
This move towards strengthening ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia is seen in the context of recent events. The meeting took place during the Islamic-Arab summit, following Israel's airstrikes on Palestinian leaders in Qatar. Iran views Israel's violation of Qatar's sovereignty as an opportunity to improve relations with its Arab neighbours, particularly Saudi Arabia.
Larijani's reappointment at the pivotal position in Iran's political architecture is also seen as a major development in Iran's regional and international security policies. Larijani, who previously served as the SNSC secretary from August 2005 to October 2007 and was Iran's chief nuclear negotiator with France, Germany, and the UK, brings a wealth of experience to the table.
Notably, Larijani met with the Russian president in the Kremlin before his re-assignment at the top security position on August 7. This meeting is indicative of Iran's growing diplomatic efforts to mend fences with key regional players.
Meanwhile, on a separate front, Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Doha, Qatar on Monday. This meeting is another step towards normalising relations between the two countries.
In recent months, France and Australia have improved diplomatic relations by recognising a Palestinian state, with Germany and other Western partners considering similar steps. Countries like Germany and Japan are involved in monitoring and addressing regional security and stability through various diplomatic and security partnerships.
As the region grapples with complex security challenges, the advancement of relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia is a positive development that could pave the way for a more stable and peaceful Middle East. The focus now shifts to the implementation of the agreements reached during Larijani's visit and the future of Iran-Saudi Arabia relations.
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