RIYADH: Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, second deputy premier and defense minister, and US Defense Secretary Ashton Carter have, in a phone conversation, affirmed both countries’ defense relationship.

In a statement, Peter Cook, Pentagon press secretary, said they also discussed the security environment in the Middle East including ways to work together to strengthen cooperation in counterterrorism efforts.

Carter welcomed Saudi contribution to the coalition campaign to counter Daesh, Cook said. Both discussed ways to expand joint cooperation. Iran’s role in the region and ways of combating violence and extremism in the region also figured in the talks. The US reiterated its willingness to work with GCC states in order to promote stability in the region. The defense leaders agreed on the need to stay in close communication, Cook added.