Saudi and Chinese foreign ministers discuss relations in Riyadh

Saudi and Chinese foreign ministers discuss relations in Riyadh

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan held talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Riyadh on Tuesday. "During the meeting, they discussed bilateral relations between the two countries, and ways to support and enhance them in a way that serves their common interests," the foreign ministry said. They also exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual concern. Earlier Wang told Al Arabiya that China supported Saudi Arabia's new peace initiative for Yemen. He also said Beijing had a five point plan to help the Middle East. Wang also met with Nayef Al-Hajraf, the secretary general of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Al-Hajraf said member countries wanted to enhance cooperation and relations with China in various fields, as well as to expedite free trade negotiations between the two parties. "During the meeting, they discussed the latest regional and international developments, especially enhancing regional security and stability by adhering to the UN's Charter and Security Council resolutions, respecting state sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs and combating terrorism," the GCC said in a statement. Al-Hajraf said it was important for GCC countries to take part in any negotiations on Iran and its nuclear program. The talks, he