His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, the Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs, received a telephone call from His Excellency Abbas Araqchi, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran. These discussions are part of the ongoing communication between the two sides to address issues of mutual interest and strengthen bilateral relations in a way that serves the interests of both countries and their neighboring peoples.

During the call, the two sides discussed a range of regional and international developments currently unfolding in the Middle East. They unequivocally emphasized the need to resolve existing disputes through constructive dialogue and diplomatic means, prioritizing reason and wisdom to prevent further escalation of tensions in the region. The ministers also discussed efforts to maintain regional security and stability, and to ensure the safety of navigation and international waterways, reflecting a shared understanding of the sensitivity of the current situation.

This contact is particularly significant given the recent historical context of relations between Riyadh and Tehran, especially following the agreement reached in Beijing in March 2013, which stipulated the resumption of diplomatic relations and the reopening of embassies. This ongoing communication between the two foreign ministers demonstrates the commitment of both parties to moving forward with the implementation of the agreement's provisions and strengthening confidence-building measures that contribute to a more stable and prosperous regional environment.

Regionally, these talks come at a time when the region is facing complex geopolitical challenges that require close coordination among influential regional powers. Saudi Arabia and Iran, as pivotal states in the Islamic world and the region, bear a significant responsibility in working to contain crises and prevent the escalation of conflicts. Observers note that maintaining open channels of communication between Riyadh and Tehran is a crucial safeguard for de-escalating tensions in several of the region's hotspots.

In conclusion, the contact reflects the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s constant commitment to its diplomatic approach based on building bridges of cooperation and supporting all efforts aimed at establishing the foundations of international security and peace, in order to achieve the developmental aspirations of the peoples of the region, away from the language of confrontation and conflicts.

The Federal Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, Mr. Friedrich Merz, arrived in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, today, accompanied by a high-level delegation, at the start of an official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia aimed at discussing ways to enhance joint cooperation between the two friendly countries.

Official welcoming ceremony at King Khalid International Airport

Among those who welcomed the German Chancellor upon his arrival at King Khalid International Airport were His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of Riyadh Region, and His Highness Prince Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf, Mayor of Riyadh. His Excellency the Minister of Finance, Mr. Mohammed Al-Jadaan (the accompanying minister), also participated in the welcoming ceremony, reflecting the economic importance of this visit.

The reception delegation also included the Acting Chargé d'Affaires at the Kingdom’s Embassy in Germany, Mr. Fahd Al-Hathal, the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to the Kingdom, Mr. Michael Kindsgrab, His Excellency the Acting Director of Riyadh Region Police, Major General Mansour bin Nasser Al-Otaibi, and His Excellency the Undersecretary of Royal Protocol, Mr. Fahd Al-Sahil.

Dimensions of the visit and the future of Saudi-German relations

The German Chancellor’s visit to Riyadh is of great importance in light of current international changes, as Germany is the Kingdom’s largest economic partner in Europe, while Saudi Arabia represents a pivotal political and economic force in the Middle East and the G20.

The presence of Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan as an accompanying minister to the German guest indicates that economic and investment issues will top the agenda of the talks. Through its Vision 2030, the Kingdom seeks to deepen partnerships with major industrial nations like Germany, particularly in the renewable energy, green hydrogen, technology, and manufacturing sectors, where German companies possess extensive expertise that can contribute to accelerating development and economic diversification in the Kingdom.

This visit comes as an extension of a long history of diplomatic and economic relations between Riyadh and Berlin. The talks are expected to address regional and international issues of common interest, which will enhance the prospects for peace and stability in the region, in addition to exploring opportunities to increase trade and open new horizons for mutual investments between the private sectors in both countries.