New Siri remote will not pair with apple TV 4K

I have an Apple TV $Kand just purchased the new Siri remote. When I follow the instructions to pair the two, the Apple TV recognizes the remote, but will not pair. The message on the screen says to bring the remote close to the Apple TV to pair, but the remote is right in front of the IR, I have tried laying the remote next to the TV, on top everything. I cannot get it any closer.

Does anyone have the same issue or any suggestions?

Thanks in advance