TEHRAN, Iran (AP) — Kuwait’s emir has arrived in Iran’s capital, Tehran, for his first visit in decades as the Islamic Republic’s relations continue to thaw with Gulf nations under moderate President Hassan Rouhani.

A report by Iran’s official IRNA news agency said Sheik Sabah Al Ahmed Al Sabah arrived Sunday for a two-day visit, accompanied by several ministers. It said the emir will meet Rouhani and others on a visit aimed at strengthening ties.

Rouhani has vowed to improve relations with neighboring countries since taking office in August. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif traveled to several Gulf states, including Oman, in December.

Traditionally, Saudi Arabia and other Western-allied Arab nations in the six-member Gulf Cooperation Council have been wary of Iran’s influence in the region.

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