The US yesterday (May 14) urged Saudi Arabia and its Gulf neighbours to unite in confronting common threats such as Iran, a report said.

"The most pressing security challenges threaten this region - and they demand a collective response," US Defence Secretary Chuck Hagel said during opening remarks of a meeting of GCC defence ministers, reported the Gulf Daily News, our sister publication.

The crucial meeting is taking place as negotiators from Iran and six world powers, including the US, sit down for talks in Vienna aimed at reaching a final accord by July to settle the standoff over Tehran's nuclear ambitions.

Hagel promised US allies in the Gulf that negotiations to contain Iran's nuclear programme will not weaken their security.

"While we noted that Iran's diplomatic engagement has been a positive development, we continue to share deep concerns about Iran's destabilising activities, including its efforts to undermine the stability in the GCC," Hagel said.

Saudi Crown Prince Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud called for stronger military co-operation between the US and Gulf states to confront regional threats.

Meanwhile, Iran yesterday appeared to welcome an offer by Saudi Arabia to thaw relations, a day after the kingdom's top diplomat invited his Iranian counterpart to visit.

Deputy Foreign Minister Amir Abdollahian said Iran has not received any written invitation but it welcomes dialogue to help resolve regional disputes. – TradeArabia News Service