NBC describes that "The deal, which will see the two countries reopen embassies in each other's capitals, was sealed during a meeting in China — a boost to Beijing's efforts to rival the United States as a broker on the global stage." Indeed this is the message China is quick to emphasize:

SAUDI ARABIA, IRAN TALK IN BEIJING IS VICTORY OF PEACE: WANG YI

A joint communique confirming the restoration of relations from was issued by Riyadh, Tehran, and Beijing - and was first published in state-run Saudi Press Agency (SPA). The statement emphasizes "a shared desire to resolve the disagreements between them through dialogue and diplomacy, and in light of their brotherly ties."

It spells out that the next step is for foreign ministers from both countries to "meet to implement this, arrange for the return of their ambassadors, and discuss means of enhancing bilateral relations."

Representing the Iranian side in the Beijing talks was Ali Shamkhani, a close adviser to Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khameni. On the other side was Saudi Arabia's Minister of State Musaad bin Mohammed Al-Aiban, with the two engaging in intense negotiations.