This evening, Prince Khalid bin Salman, Minister of Defence of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, met with the Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, to deliver an official message from King Salman bin Abdulaziz.
During the meeting, Ayatollah Imam Khamenei underscored the strategic importance of bilateral ties, stating:
"We believe that strengthening relations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and Saudi Arabia serves the interests of both nations. The two countries have the potential to complement one another on multiple levels."
He acknowledged the presence of adversaries seeking to undermine the normalisation and development of relations, adding:
"These hostile efforts must be overcome, and we are fully prepared to move forward in this direction."
Referring to various areas of national advancement, Ayatollah Imam Khamenei reiterated Iran's willingness to share its experience and capabilities with Saudi Arabia.
He emphasised the value of regional cooperation, stating:
"It is far more beneficial for regional brothers to collaborate and support one another than to depend on external powers."
Major General Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, was also in attendance.
Prince Khalid bin Salman expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to engage in high-level dialogue and said:
"I have come to Tehran under direct instructions to pursue the expansion of bilateral relations and to enhance cooperation across all sectors. We are optimistic that these constructive discussions will pave the way for a stronger and more resilient partnership between Saudi Arabia and the Islamic Republic of Iran."