All news

Saudi Arabia seeks broader relations with Russia despite differences — FM

The differences of Russia and Saudi Arabia center around the stance on the Syrian crisis and supplies of weapons to Iran
Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir  EPA/SERGEI CHIRIKOV
Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir
© EPA/SERGEI CHIRIKOV

CAIRO, October 1. /TASS/. Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir said on Thursday his country was seeking to expand bilateral relations with Russia despite the existing differences between Moscow and Riyadh.

In an interview with al-Hayat newspaper, Jubeir said: "Our differences centre around two issues - the stance on the Syrian crisis and supplies of weapons to Iran. But I think relations with Russia should be much broader than now."

Jubeir said the two countries had many common interests on which to develop ties, noting that Russia’s and Saudi Arabia’s political and economic clout did not correspond to the current level of bilateral relations.

"We are united by common interests connected with oil and agriculture, as well as by mutual understanding of the Palestinian problem. There are many things based on which we can develop our relationship," Jubeir was quoted as saying. "We should strengthen them in all fields."

"Certainly, there are differences in positions on some issues but it doesn’t mean that we are not seeking to improve ties with Russia," he said.

Asked about a possible new visit to Russia, the Saudi foreign minister said nothing prevented him from doing that.