News - Middle East: Iranian President Ebrahim Raeisi has praised Iran and Saudi Arabia as two influential countries in the West Asia region and the Muslim world, calling for further promotion of ties between Tehran and Riyadh.

Raeisi made the remarks on Monday as he met with Alireza Enayati, Iran’s new ambassador to Saudi Arabia, ahead of his departure for Riyadh.
Highlighting the Islamic Republic’s commitment to the expansion and consolidation of relations with its neighboring countries, the Iranian president called for the utilization of the existing capacities to further enhance Tehran-Riyadh ties.
“Collaboration between Iran and Saudi Arabia, as well as increased regional cooperation at bilateral and multilateral levels, particularly in issues concerning the Islamic world ... will enhance the standing of regional countries,” Raeisi said.
He also noted that improved regional cooperation would decrease foreign interference in regional affairs.
Behind closed doors on August 18, visiting Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman held "frank and fruitful" talks in Jeddah, the highest level talks since the two countries restored relations after years of estrangement.