MOSCOW — Foreign Minister Adel Al-Jubeir today described the current visit of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman to the Russian Federation, the first by a Saudi monarch, as historic by all standards.

In a joint press conference with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov, Al-Jubeir said the talks were very positive, cordial and constructive, covering economic, cultural and political aspects in addition to the challenges facing the region. He noted that the Kingdom's relations with Russia have developed to greater horizons such that it is now distinguished relations, thanks to the guidance of the leaderships of the two countries.

Al-Jubeir said that the two sides are keen to upgrade trade exchanges, intensify political consultation and security cooperation between the two countries to confront terror and extremism, confirming that the Kingdom and Russia observe the principles of preserving the sovereignty of countries, respecting the international law and practicing non-interference in the affairs of other countries.

He said the two sides discussed the issue of terrorism and extremism, and the Palestinian issue and underscored the importance of finding a solution to it based on the pillars of international legitimacy, the Arab peace initiative which aims at establishing a Palestinian state on the 1967 parallel, with eastern Al-Quds as its capital.

On the Syrian issue, Al-Jubeir said, "We are closely working with Russia to unite the modern Syrian opposition, expand its influence to enable it to enter the political process in Geneva. We also support the Astana-based talks, the importance of integrity of Syrian territories and the Syrian institutions.”

On Iraq, Al-Jubeir underscored the importance of the unity of Iraq and supporting it to face Daesh terrorist organization.

He confirmed that the Kingdom supports the efforts of the UN envoy to Yemen to find a solution based on the GCC initiative, the Yemeni national dialogue outcomes and the UN Security Council resolution 2216.

He also drew attention to the fact that the Saudi Russian relations are currently at an historic point, as they have become institutional ties including numerous ministries and sectors, noting the investments launched and their role in enhancing trade between the two countries.

He added that consultation between the Kingdom and Russia is continuing and is considered constructive in all fields and that "we are confident that the two countries would contribute to bringing about security, peace and stability to the region and the world at large." — SPA