UAE Sends Special Envoy to Discuss Qatar-Gulf Crisis With FM Retno
Jakarta. The United Arab Emirates, or UAE, sent a special envoy to meet with Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi in Jakarta on Tuesday (15/06). During the visit, envoy Abdul Rahman Mohammed Al Oweis relayed his government’s views on the diplomatic crisis in the Gulf and discussed possible solutions.
"Indonesia has good relations with every country, and a balanced position on international politics," Retno told reporters, adding that Indonesia has always endeavored to contribute to world peace.
Retno said the Indonesian government is of the opinion that the current crisis in the Gulf should be solved through dialogue and negotiations and that efforts should be made to prevent tensions from escalating.
She also said that Indonesia is ready to provide assistance when needed.
"[Al Oweis] agreed that dialogue and a political settlement are the only viable options to achieve a solution to the crisis. He also agreed that a military option is not an option," Retno said.
On June 5, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt cut diplomatic ties with Qatar, accusing the Gulf state of financing terrorist networks.
Qatar has denied the accusations, saying that "the measures are unjustified and are based on false and baseless claims."
The severance of diplomatic ties has resulted in immediate travel restrictions, suspensions of flights to and from Qatar and a closure of transport links.
Mauritania, Maldives, Yemen and Senegal have also cut diplomatic ties with Qatar. Other countries, such as Jordan and Djibouti, have downgraded their diplomatic relations with Qatar.
"We’re trying to push for further dialogue at the moment. It’s a relief to hear that the UAE envoy agreed this was the viable option," Retno said.
"Indonesia hopes other countries outside of the Gulf do not engage in activities that will increase tension," she added.
Retno told reporters she has been in touch with foreign ministers of other countries, including Germany and Kuwait, to discuss options to solve the crisis.
"We are supportive of the mediation efforts led by the Emir of Kuwait [Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah], he’s a well-respected figure in the Gulf," Retno said.
On Monday, Qatari Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani said Qatar is ready for a dialogue based on principles that respect international law, according to a press release issued by Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.