TEHRAN – Iran says the restoration of diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia proves the Islamic Republic’s resolve to secure the interests of Iranians, Muslim nations, and friendly countries in the West Asia region.

“The Iranian government showed that it is strongly determined to realize the interests of Iranians, Muslim nations as well as friendly and neighboring countries, tap regional capacities in order to promote peace and overall stability, and realize common interests of regional governments and nations,” the foreign ministry said in a statement.

It said the revival of relations with Saudi Arabia is another step forward by President Ebrahim Raisi’s administration to pursue a balanced foreign policy doctrine, dynamic diplomacy, and materializing policies of good neighborliness.

It touched on the “positive outcomes” of reconciliation between Iran and Saudi Arabia on the common interests of the two regional powerhouses and other countries in West Asia.

The ministry also extended gratitude towards China, Iraq, and Oman for their roles that helped Iran and Saudi Arabia to restore bilateral ties.

Iran’s permanent mission to the United Nations said the recent conclusion of a detente deal between the country and Saudi Arabia stands to contribute to the realization of a ceasefire in Yemen.

It will have “positive” implications on the three bilateral, regional, and international levels, including as far as relations across the Muslim world were concerned, the mission said in a statement.

“It appears that re-establishment of political relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia will accelerate the achievement of ceasefire in Yemen, initiation of popular negotiations there, and formation of an inclusive national government in the country,” it noted.

Saudi Arabia invaded Yemen in March 2015 in collaboration with a number of its allies and with arms and logistical support from the United States and several other Western states.