Saudis, Soviets seek ties again, British papers say

Saudi Arabia and the Soviet Union are seeking to restore formal diplomatic relations after a break of over 30 years, two British newspapers report. The Observer, quoting highly placed Arab sources, said an announcement might come about the time of the Arab summit conference due to take place in Morocco later this month.

The Sunday Telegraph said secret messages between Moscow and Riyadh had opened the way for an exchange of embassies. The Telegraph said the issue had been raised by Yasser Arafat, leader of the Palestine Liberation Organization, who recently visited Riyadh and Moscow.

Sources in London said a resumption of full diplomatic relations was unlikely because of Soviet intervention in Afghanistan.