UPDATE - Saudi King Salman arrives in Bahrain

UPDATES WITH KING'S ARRIVAL; CHANGES HEADLINE

MANAMA (AA) - Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz arrived in Bahrain on Wednesday afternoon for a surprise visit, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Bahrain’s official news agency reported earlier Wednesday that Bahraini King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa was expected to receive his Saudi counterpart upon the latter’s arrival in Manama.

According to the news agency, the two leaders are expected to discuss bilateral relations, regional developments and other “issues of common interest”.

King Salman’s visit was not announced in advance, nor have any details been given regarding its expected duration or itinerary.

In 2017, Bahrain -- along with Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates -- abruptly severed relations with Qatar, accusing Doha of supporting terrorist groups.

Qatar vociferously denies the allegation, describing Saudi-led efforts to isolate it -- politically and economically -- as a violation of international law.

Kuwait has attempted to mediate the crisis, which until now remains unresolved.

Writing by Ali Abo Rezeg