Ukraine war threatening global peace, energy security, Bahrain tells Russia

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain yesterday urged Russia to end the war in Ukraine by resorting to dialogue and diplomatic solutions while also calling on all to stay away from fuelling the escalation and increasing the loss of life on both sides during talks held between Bahraini and Russian Foreign ministers in Moscow.

“Stability of Europe represents the stability of the whole world,” Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al-Zayani said, calling on countries and international groups to play a constructive role to resolve the dispute.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs also called on all parties involved to stay away from fueling the escalation and increasing the loss of lives.

“We reject war and call for its cessation, and hope that security, peace and stability will prevail in all countries of the world,” Dr Al Zayani told Sergey Lavrov, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, during a press conference after talks.

The minister also stressed the importance of opening safe passages for civilians and humanitarian and relief aid under the supervision of the United Nations. Dr Al-Zayani, during talks, said the Ukrainian situation had become a threat to regional peace and security, global energy supplies, the global economy and food imports.

“This is in addition to its dreadful effects on the civilians,” the minister said, stressing that Bahrain believes in continuing direct negotiations, dialogue and diplomatic methods to stop the war and reach a permanent peace settlement.

During talks, the minister further highlighted the importance of exchanging views on regional and international issues and affairs that threaten security and stability in Europe and the Middle East, in particular the situation in Ukraine.

Sergey Lavrov expressed his pride in the visit of the Minister of Foreign Affairs during a press conference. Lavrov said the discussions opened new areas of cooperation, noting an agreement to continue strengthening bilateral cooperation on international issues.

Dr Al Zayani said there is a unified position between the two sides on the need to strengthen international efforts for launching direct Israeli-Palestinian negotiations, noting that the Russian Federation attaches great importance to Palestinian unity.

The ministry also welcomed the Saudi initiative to host Yemeni consultations with the participation of all Yemeni parties, expressing hope for a final solution to the Yemeni crisis. The two sides also discussed developments in the political and security situation in the Middle East, including in Palestine, Yemen, Syria and Libya, and the progress of Iranian nuclear talks.

Restore security, calm: HM King

Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al-Zayani’s remarks comes as His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa expressed hope that Russia and Ukraine could overcome their dispute and reach a peaceful settlement to protect their interests and restore security and calm in the region.

HM King had stressed Bahrain’s firm commitment to global stability through its foreign relations and humanitarian initiatives, adding that the Kingdom is actively working to strengthen its strategic alliances and commercial partnerships with countries of the world, without exception.

“We will not deviate from this approach. We will always remain advocates of harmony and peace, striving to extend a helping hand as much as we can”, said HM the King while receiving Muharraq citizens at Al Sakhir Palace on Wednesday.