Wang Yi (C), a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee, attends a closing meeting of the talks between the Saudi delegation led by Musaad bin Mohammed Al-Aiban (L), Saudi Arabia's Minister of State, Member of the Council of Ministers and National Security Advisor, and Iranian delegation led by Admiral Ali Shamkhani (R), Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council of Iran, in Beijing, capital of China, March 10, 2023. (Xinhua/Luo Xiaoguang)
by Hani Wafa
Ahead of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, the resumption of diplomatic ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran, with China's support, has attracted worldwide attention. This historic icebreaker may bring hope for peace in the Middle East.
MILESTONE TO BOLSTER REGION
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Islamic Republic of Iran have their own weight in the Middle East's balance of power. Specific circumstances led to the severing of relations between them. Now, an understanding has been reached to resume ties in Beijing when the two countries signed an agreement under the patronage of the People's Republic of China.
There is no doubt that the Saudi-Iranian agreement is significant for the stability of the whole region and will undoubtedly help regional nations enjoy security, prosperity and stability.
As Saudis, we believe the agreement is born from our government's wise and well-balanced policies that seek to benefit our country and the region's nations, which urgently need development.
U.S. BRIEF REACTIONS
Saudi-U.S. relations date back more than eight decades. The relations are historical. With its political constants, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a reliable ally for all countries with which it has relations.
This photo taken on Dec. 4, 2022 shows a square in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Xinhua/Wang Dongzhen)
U.S.-Iranian relations are bound by a nuclear accord to which Washington is a party. No one can predict the future of the relations between these two countries, whether an agreement is reached or not.
U.S. reaction to the Iran-Saudi deal was brief, with no effective comment. Naturally, the improvement in the relations among countries will positively impact world peace and security.
CHINA ADDS CREDIBILITY TO THE AGREEMENT
China is a major country that adopts balanced policies, and its relations with the world countries are greatly appreciated and respected. It has never interfered in the affairs of other countries.
China is a political and economic giant with special relations with Saudi Arabia and Iran. Both the Saudi government and the people highly respect it.
This photo taken on Dec. 7, 2022 shows jets releasing smoke in the colors of the Chinese national flag in the sky over Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)
The summits held last December, including China-Arab States Summit and the China-Gulf Cooperation Council, along with the Chinese president's state visit to Saudi Arabia, are evidence of Beijing's great interest in the region's countries and development.
China is considered a reliable and trustworthy partner whose patronage of the agreement adds momentum and credibility. The Chinese role in this agreement is as important as the agreement itself.
China has played and continues to play a significant and active role in concluding the agreement since it is well aware of the significance of this region to it and the world. Chinese diplomacy is known for its weight, sobriety and foresight.
China has played significant roles internationally in guaranteeing the world's stability and prosperity.
SAUDI ARABIA CALLS FOR A BETTER WORLD
Recovery in Saudi-Iranian relations depends on the implementation of and commitment to the terms of the agreement. Good intentions are only the beginning, yet the fulfillment of the terms is no less critical.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has always sought relations with countries based on mutual respect. Mutual respect is built over time and through actions that prove good intentions.
Once the agreement between the two countries is implemented, it will positively impact both countries and the whole region. Understanding, instead of tension, will constitute the basis of the relationship, leading to more stability and development. This is what the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia desires, a better world for all.
Editor's note: Mr. Hani Wafa is the editor-in-chief of Al Riyadh Newspaper, the first daily newspaper published in Arabic in Riyadh. Al Riyadh is regarded as one of the major daily newspapers published in Saudi Arabia.
The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the positions of Xinhua News Agency.■
