TEHRAN – Iran's ambassador to Saudi Arabia has highlighted the significant strides made in fostering cooperation among the eight littoral states of the Persian Gulf. 

This development is seen as a direct outcome of the renewed diplomatic ties between Tehran and Riyadh.

June 5 marks the anniversary of the official reopening of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Saudi Arabia, which had been closed for seven years. This diplomatic milestone followed a tripartite agreement signed in Beijing on March 10, 2023, wherein Iran and Saudi Arabia committed to resuming diplomatic relations within two months. The agreement emphasized mutual respect for sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs.

Ambassador Alireza Enayati noted that the reopening of the Iranian embassy and consulate in Saudi Arabia, along with the subsequent reopening of the Saudi embassy, marked a significant step forward in bilateral relations. 

"Over the past year, these renewed ties have advanced steadily, benefiting both nations on multiple levels," he added. 

Enayati stressed that the improved relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia have positively influenced regional cooperation and enhanced regional stability. He emphasized the potential for broader cooperation among the eight Persian Gulf states, envisioning a comprehensive, development-oriented partnership.

"We are committed to all-encompassing, development-focused cooperation," Enayati stated. "We emphasize endogenous security based on the internal strengths of regional countries. Strengthening people-to-people relations and travel is a cornerstone of our bilateral relations. We look forward to collective cooperation among the eight littoral states of the Persian Gulf, and significant steps have already been taken toward this goal."