Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman met with Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran, delivering a letter from King Salman bin Abdulaziz. Although the message’s details remain undisclosed, the meeting signifies a positive step in Saudi-Iranian relations. Khamenei expressed support for closer ties, stating that cooperation between the two countries would be beneficial for both nations. He emphasized the importance of regional collaboration, saying, “It is much better for brothers in the region to cooperate and help each other than to rely on others”.
Key Outcomes of the Meeting:
- Improved Relations: Khamenei welcomed potential improvements in relations, highlighting that both countries can complement each other.
- Regional Cooperation: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Prince Khalid bin Salman discussed bilateral cooperation, with Pezeshkian stating that Iran and Saudi Arabia can resolve many regional problems without foreign intervention.
- Military Ties: Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, noted that military relations have been improving since the China-brokered agreement in 2023.
- Mutual Visits: Prince Khalid extended an invitation to Bagheri to visit Saudi Arabia, while President Pezeshkian accepted an invitation for an official visit to Saudi Arabia.
This meeting marks a significant development in Saudi-Iranian relations, particularly given that it has been nearly two decades since Khamenei last received a Saudi official. The talks demonstrate both countries’ commitment to strengthening ties and cooperation
