Iran Reacts to Saudi FM`s recent statements

Tehran, March 5, IRNA `

Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki advised Saudi Arabia on Thursday
to avoid making statements which would not serve the goals of Arab and
Islamic states, the ministry?s information and press office reported.

Mottaki made the remarks commenting on a recent statement by his Saudi
counterpart Prince Saud al-Faisal who had called during a meeting in
Egypt on Tuesday for "a unified and a joint vision" in dealing with
the "Iranian challenge.?

It was surprising that the Saudi prince has referred to Iran as ?a
challenge, Mottaki said, adding that the prince has ?distanced himself
from realism? in his comments.

?Those suggestions have obviously no place in the conscience and
public opinions of the Arab and Islamic world,? Mottaki stressed.

Noting that Tehran supported the Arab and Islamic states' efforts for
unity and solidarity, the Iranian minister urged them to avoid taking
positions which would be against the goals of Arab and Islamic
countries.

End