TEHRAN - Iranian Culture and Islamic Guidance Minister Ali Jannati has said Saudis have not been cooperative over the past months, twisting Hajj negotiations.

“We are seriously seeking to dispatch pilgrims to Mecca,” Jannati was quoted as saying.

But, he added, despite discussing a range of issues, the Saudi side has been less reluctant to engage positively, particularly when it comes to air transport and transfer of Iranian passengers to the country by Iranian airlines.

Jannati expressed hope for cooperation on the Saudi part so as to make it possible to resume Hajj flights to the country. 

Iran and Saudi Arabia have been at odds over a number of regional issues. Apart from the Mina Hajj stampede during which about 400 Iranian pilgrims were killed, the two countries are at loggerheads over other issues, particularly the Syrian conflict.

Saudi Arabia severed its political ties with Iran after the country’s diplomatic posts in Tehran and Mashahd were stormed in a public mob, though Iran has taken legal action against the culprits.     

AK/PA