BEIJING — Saudi National Security Advisor Dr. Musaad Al-Aiban said on Friday that the agreement to restore relations with Iran comes after in-depth discussions that reviewed the causes of differences and ways to address them. He pointed out that the two countries will open a new chapter based on adherence to international treaties and covenants. Al-Aiban made his remarks during the closing session before signing the agreement in the Chinese capital Beijing. He said: "The Saudi leadership welcomed the initiative of Chinese President Xi Jinping to restore relations between Riyadh and Tehran. It comes from the Kingdom's firm and continuous approach since its establishment to adhere to the principles of good neighborliness, taking everything that would enhance the security and stability of the region and the world, and the adoption of the principle of dialogue and diplomacy to resolve differences. "We reached this agreement today, which comes as a culmination of in-depth discussions that we held over this week with the support of the leaders of our three countries and during which an extensive review of the causes of differences and ways to address them was conducted." He added: "The Kingdom was keen that this agreement comes within the framework of what brings the two countries together and to open a new page based on a commitment to the principles and purposes of the charters of the United Nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and international conventions and norms. "The agreement emphasized that the principles of respect for the sovereignty of states and non-interference in their affairs is a fundamental pillar for the development of relations between states and the promotion of security and stability in our region, in a way that benefits the two countries and the region in general, and enhances regional and international peace and security." Al-Aiban expressed his hope that constructive dialogue will continue in accordance with the pillars and foundations included in the agreement.
