Bahrain: The closing communique of the fourth Arab-South American Summit yesterday called on Iran to respond to the UAE’s request for a peaceful resolution of a dispute over three Emirati islands under Iranian occupation since 1971.
It came as His Majesty King Hamad yesterday led Bahrain’s delegation to the summit.
The communique called for a solution to the issue of the islands of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa which have long been a source of regional tension.
Arab and South American leaders also found common ground in support for the Palestinians.
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud mentioned specifically the Palestinian cause in their public remarks.
Latin American countries have been among the most vocal critics of Israel’s policies in the Palestinian territories, with several recalling their ambassadors for consultations to protest Israeli actions during last year’s Gaza war.
Venezuela is among a handful of South American countries that broke ties with Israel altogether in the past over its actions in Gaza.
Additionally, Saudi Foreign Minister Adel Al Jubeir lauded Latin American countries for their recognition of Palestine as he highlighted the agreement to fight extremism and address the infringement on sovereignty of countries in the region.
Meanwhile, representatives from Yemen, where Saudi Arabia is leading an Arab coalition against Iranian-backed Houthi militias, urged that all outcomes of dialogue be respected in accordance with the Gulf Initiative.
The statement also stressed on the support of the ongoing political process in Libya in form of dialogue under the auspices of the UN.
Participants also expressed their rejection of any interference in the internal affairs of any country in the region as it would constitute a violation of the Charter of the UN and the principles of good neighbourliness.
The fourth summit condemned what participants said was Iranian interference in the internal affairs of Arab countries and urged the Islamic republic to stop provocative acts that would undermine the security and stability of its Arab neighbours.
Representatives also stressed on the importance of respecting the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of the countries, as well as
the peaceful settlement of disputes.
The closing remarks stressed that investment is one of the pillars of social and economic development in the region.
It also called for the promotion of trade and investment between the Arab and South American countries.
The statement welcomed the establishment of an international centre to combat terrorism.
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