Saudi diplomatic operations' restart hailed

Saudi Arabia resumes diplomatic operations in Kabul, welcomed by Afghanistan as a step to strengthen ties.

KABUL:

The Afghan foreign ministry on Monday welcomed Saudi Arabia's decision to resume its diplomatic operations in Kabul, more than three years after Riyadh withdrew its staff during the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan.

"We are optimistic about the possibility of strengthening relations and cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Afghanistan through the resumption of these activities," said Afghan foreign ministry spokesman Zia Ahmad in a statement.

"We will also be able to respond to the problems of Afghans residing in Saudi Arabia."

"Based on the desire of the government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to provide all services to the brotherly Afghan people, it has been decided to resume the activities of the mission of the Kingdom in Kabul" it said