In a message to Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud on Wednesday, Rouhani congratulated the government and nation on the occasion of the Saudi National Day, which is celebrated on September 23 every year.

The Iranian president also expressed hope that brotherly Tehran-Riyadh cooperation would further flourish under the auspices of unity and convergence as well as deep-rooted religious, cultural and historical affinities between the two countries.

Rouhani also wished the Saudi monarch good health and success, and the Saudi nation glory and progress.

Earlier on September 19, the Iranian president called for stronger ties between Tehran and Riyadh, and the settlement of existing differences between the two Muslim states.

Rouhani referred to Saudi Arabia as a brotherly and friendly country which shares a great deal of interests with Iran, stressing the need for the expansion of ties and cooperation between the two countries.

“This issue has been highlighted both in a congratulatory letter from Saudi Arabia King [Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud] to me, and in my thank-you letter to him, and both sides are ready to eliminate minor tensions to guarantee the mutual interests and those of the Muslim world,” he said.

HH/HH