His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, the Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs, arrived today (Wednesday) in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, on an official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and discussing issues of common interest between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.

His Highness the Minister of Foreign Affairs is scheduled to hold extensive talks with the Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Dr. Abiy Ahmed Ali. The meeting will address the latest developments in the region, as well as review international and regional efforts to achieve security and stability, particularly in the Horn of Africa, which faces multiple geopolitical challenges requiring ongoing coordination among key players.

The dimensions of the visit and its important timing

This visit is particularly significant given its timing, as the region witnesses intensive diplomatic efforts aimed at defusing crises and bolstering peace prospects. Saudi Arabia views Ethiopia as a crucial strategic partner on the African continent, considering its significant population, political influence, and strategic geographic location. These initiatives align with the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which prioritizes deepening partnerships with African nations, a commitment clearly demonstrated in recent Saudi-African summits focused on economic and security cooperation.

Saudi-Ethiopian relations and Red Sea security

Historically, Riyadh and Addis Ababa have enjoyed long-standing relations, and both countries play a pivotal role in the security of the Red Sea, a vital artery for global trade. The talks are expected to address ways to secure waterways and enhance cooperation in combating terrorism and transnational threats. The Sudanese issue is also likely to be on the agenda, given the geographical proximity, the Kingdom's role in mediating a solution to the Sudanese crisis, and its direct impact on stability in Ethiopia and neighboring countries.

Promoting regional stability

Saudi diplomacy, under the leadership of Prince Faisal bin Farhan, seeks to build bridges of understanding and constructive dialogue to resolve regional disputes peacefully. Ethiopia, as the headquarters of the African Union, serves as a key gateway for diplomatic efforts on the continent. Therefore, Saudi-Ethiopian coordination not only benefits both countries but also extends its impact to strengthening collective security in East Africa and the Arab region, thus opening broader horizons for developmental and economic cooperation that serves all the peoples of the region.

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, sent congratulatory telegrams to His Excellency President Masoud Pezeshkian, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, on the occasion of his country’s National Day, in a move that reflects the continuation of the diplomatic approach based on mutual respect and good neighborliness.

Wishing you health and prosperity

In their respective telegrams, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Crown Prince expressed their sincerest congratulations and best wishes for continued health and happiness to His Excellency, and for further progress and prosperity to the government and people of the brotherly Islamic Republic of Iran. This message of congratulations is in line with the high-level diplomatic protocols that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is keen to uphold with its brotherly and friendly nations, participating in their national occasions and official celebrations.

The context of Saudi-Iranian relations

This congratulatory message is particularly significant given the positive developments in Saudi-Iranian relations in recent times, especially following the historic agreement reached in Beijing in March 2013, which paved the way for the resumption of diplomatic relations and the reopening of embassies. These messages underscore the Saudi leadership's commitment to promoting de-escalation and cooperation in the region, serving the interests of both nations and enhancing opportunities for joint development.

The importance of regional stability

Observers believe that the exchange of greetings on national occasions between the leadership of the two countries is a vital indicator of stable political relations and reflects a shared desire to move forward in building bridges of trust. Saudi Arabia, through its ambitious Vision 2030, places regional stability as a cornerstone of its foreign policy, believing that economic prosperity and sustainable development can only be achieved in an environment of security and constructive cooperation among neighboring countries.

National Day symbolism

The Iranian people celebrate their National Day, a significant milestone in the country's modern history. The Saudi leadership's participation in this occasion, through congratulatory messages, underscores the fraternal ties that bind the peoples of the region and renews the call for joint action to confront regional and international challenges, ensuring a brighter and more stable future for the entire Middle East.