Progress Achieved in Tehran-Riyadh Talks

Issues between Iran and Saudi Arabia have been discussed with a friendly approach and in a spirit of goodwill and have made some progress, according to an Iranian senior official. 
“We are always prepared to carry on with these talks in a context of mutual good faith and toward safeguarding the interests and addressing the concerns of both sides,” Government Spokesman Ali Rabiei said on Tuesday, IRNA reported.   
He added that Iran deems the negotiations positive and will proceed with them until differences between the two countries are minimized. 
“We understand that some conflicts may have complications which require more time to be resolved,” he said.  
Tehran and Riyadh cut diplomatic ties in 2016 and have been at odds on a number of regional issues. 
Both sides, however, seem to be taking steps toward rapprochement and have recently held their first direct talks in years in Iraq. 
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has called for the two nations to overcome differences that have divided the region.
He noted that their joint “interests” could “push the region and the world toward prosperity.”
Iranian officials also welcomed a “dialogue-oriented approach,” saying Iran and Saudi Arabia can enter a new chapter of interaction and cooperation to achieve peace, stability, and regional development.
Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif later said there is no reason that Iran should not be able to resolve its differences with the Saudis.
“I’m ready to send an ambassador to Saudi Arabia tomorrow, but it depends on them,” he said. 
Rabiei said negotiations between the two countries started in view of Iran’s strong belief in giving priority to neighbors and the need for peaceful coexistence to ensure peace and security in the region.
“The policy of the Islamic Republic is that of neighborliness and regionalism. The best way to ensure regional peace and prevent abuse of the countries on security pretexts is that all regional countries stand together,” he said.