Russia hopes that the upcoming Gulf summit would culminate efforts to end disputes within countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), announced Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
He indicated that Moscow hopes the Gulf summit scheduled for January 5 will lead to overcoming division within the GCC and allow the resumption of its activities.
Lavrov was speaking during a press conference following his talks with Qatari counterpart and Deputy Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Moscow.
Russia's interest in this matter stems from the partnership and friendly relations it has with all GCC countries, according to Lavrov.
He reiterated that restoring the unity of the Council and its ability to perform its duties are two important matters to maintain security in the Gulf region, with the participation of Iran.
The minister pointed out that the Russian initiative that was put forward a year ago to ensure security in the Gulf, was handed to all relevant parties.
He described the reconciliation talks as “very useful” despite the differences.
The Qatari Minister announced a breakthrough in the GCC crisis after the Kuwaiti statement on the issue two weeks ago.
He indicated that talks are ongoing to reach an initial agreement on the framework to accomplish reconciliation.
The talks on the reconciliation, under Kuwait’s mediation and US' support, were only held with Saudi Arabia, but the latter was representing the other parties, reported Al Thani.
He indicated that Qatar believes the discussions were positive and constructive, and there is a serious effort to find solutions and restore unity in the GCC.
The minister stressed the importance of the Council as a regional entity in an area where conflicts are frequent.
He pointed out that the talks were based on foundations that include respecting the sovereignty of countries.
He reiterated the need to reach an understanding based on principles that preserve the security and stability of the region and seek to establish a joint cooperation action serving the interest of Gulf security.
The Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the issues of stabilizing the situation in the Gulf region are among the main issues addressed during the two ministers' discussions.
It stressed the importance of coordinating specific practical steps by countries in the region to reduce tensions.
The statement indicated that the talks also addressed the situation in Libya and Syria, as well as the Palestinian cause.
