Saudi Arabia is keen on developing its relations with Russia on all levels, and is ready to help resolve the dispute between Russia and Ukraine, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan said on Thursday during a visit to Moscow.
During a meeting with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov, the Saudi minister voiced hopes that their talks contribute to unifying visions and to strengthening bilateral relations.
The visit of the Saudi foreign minister follows his recent visit to Ukraine on Sunday.
Discussions between the two officials focused on the challenges facing the world, and their visions regarding international crises.
“There is always something new in the relations between our two brotherly countries which we look forward to promoting and developing at all levels,” said the Saudi minister.
For his part, Lavrov, through an interpreter, welcomed Saudi Arabia's increased interest to actively participate not only in settling regional issues, but also international matters.
He said that he sees the significance of "permanent and mutual" coordination between the two countries at the level of ministries and government agencies and in the areas of trade, economy and investments between Riyadh and Moscow.
"We always agree on the necessary steps to develop cooperation" between Russia and Saudi Arabia, Lavrov said.
In a joint press conference between the two officials, the Saudi minister said that “the Kingdom is ready to do the necessary to resolve the conflict in Ukraine (with Russia),” adding “we are ready to facilitate any dialogue between Russia and Ukraine.”
Lavrov hailed the Saudi minister’s remarks, welcoming Riyadh’s efforts to resolve the dispute.
“The role of Saudi Arabia regarding the Ukraine crisis is not limited to the exchange of hostages,” said Lavrov, adding “(Ukraine's President Volodymyr) Zelensky is the one refusing to sit for dialogue.”
