Iran and Saudi Arabia will exchange diplomatic visits soon, Tehran said on Wednesday, indicating a possible thaw in relations since they severed diplomatic ties last year.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif told the Iranian Students' News Agency (Isna) that the visits could take place after the Haj pilgrimage ends in the first week of September. "The visas have been issued for both sides to make this trip," Zarif said, according to Isna. "We are waiting for the final steps to be completed so diplomats from the two countries can inspect their embassies and consulates."

Relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia are at their worst in years, with each accusing the other of subverting regional security and supporting opposite sides in conflicts in Syria, Iraq and Yemen.

Thousands of Iranian pilgrims are currently undertaking the Haj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.

Source: Khaleej Times