MIDEAST: Iran, Saudi Agree To Reopen Embassies, Examine Flights Resuming & Visas

Following a meeting of Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud and his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amirabdollahian in Beijing, the two nations have agreed to start arrangements that will see embassies and consulates re-open in on another's countries within two months. The joint statement signed by both ministers stated that the two sides would also seek to discuss the prospect of resuming direct flights between the two countries, facilitating visas for citizens, and resuming bilateral visits of official and business delegations.

• The resumption of diplomatic links marks a major development in Middle Eastern politics, significantly reducing the prospect of armed conflict between the two erstwhile adversaries. It could also presage a potential end to the long-running and devastating Yemeni civil war, in which both Tehran and Riyadh are deeply involved in backing opposing sides.