Negotiating with Iran as an important regional player is necessary for the resolution of regional crises, Qatar's foreign minister said, adding that the sovereignty of all states should be respected.
Iran is considered a significant part of this vast region so it is essential to hold talks with the country, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani told Le Figaro newspaper in a recent interview, IRNA reported.
"Regional negotiations should be civilized and on the basis of respect for the sovereignty and collective security of all countries without resort to certain policies followed by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates," said Al Thani, who is also deputy prime minister.
The UAE, along with Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Egypt, cut off travel and trade ties with Qatar last June, accusing it of supporting terrorism and their rival Iran, according to Reuters. Doha denies the charges and says the countries aim to curtail its sovereignty.
Iran's Assistance
The Qatari foreign minister believes all countries in the region, including Iran, should be involved in negotiations to have a collective understanding and resolve regional issues such as the tension between Doha and its neighbors.
Iran, long at odds with Saudi Arabia and a behind-the-scenes target of the move, sent several cargo planes of food to Qatar amid concerns of shortages after Qatar's biggest suppliers severed ties with the import-dependent country and has called for the sides to overcome their differences.
Al Thani said Doha has some differences of opinion with Tehran but noted that "these issues should be identified and we have to hold talks to resolve them."
Settling Dispute
Amid efforts by Washington to try to resolve a dispute between the Persian Gulf neighbors, senior Saudi, Emirati, and Qatari leaders will meet with US President Donald Trump in the next couple of months, Reuters reported on Saturday, citing US officials.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the UAE, and Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani are all planning to have bilateral visits with Trump in March and April. The agenda will include setting up a (Persian) Gulf Cooperation Council summit, which Washington hopes will be held later this year, as well as Middle East peace and Iran.
