‘SUPPORT MEDIATION EFFORTS’

PM hopes crisis is settled amicably

AZURA ABAS

AND HASHINI KAVISHTRI KANNAN PUTRAJAYA news@nst.com.my

MALAYSIA is urging parties involved in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries’ crisis to positively participate in mediation efforts by Kuwait.

In a statement, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak urged them to comply with agreements reached by the GCC countries, specifically the 2014 Riyadh Agreement.

“Malaysia believes that this agreement is an acceptable basis for a solution to the crisis.

“We pray that, with the grace of Allah the Almighty, differences among our Arab brothers will be settled amicably, and the unity and harmony of the GCC countries can be restored.”

Najib said Malaysia fully supported efforts undertook by the Emir of Kuwait to mediate the escalating tensions.

“We stand ready to assist if our contribution is needed.

“We have always upheld the principle of non-interference in the i nternal affairs of other sovereign countries and urge other nations to do the same.”

He said Malaysia closely monitored the situation in the Arab world, especially Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Egypt and Qatar.

He said Malaysia acknowledged Saudi Arabia’s role as a beacon of stability in the Gulf, as well as its role in upholding the unity of the ummah.

“For this reason, all parties must ensure that the security and stability of Saudi Arabia, as the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, is protected and preserved.

“Malaysia recognises the kingdom’s concerns in the crisis, and encourages peace-loving nations to back efforts to end the crisis.”

He reiterated Malaysia’s support in the fight against terrorism and extremism, which it expressed during the 2017 Riyadh Summit.

“Malaysia is proud to participate in the 2017 Riyadh Summit, just as we are proud and honoured to host King Salman Abdulaziz Al-Saud earlier this year.”

In the GCC countries’ crisis, Qatar was reported to have been isolated by Saudi Arabia and its Gulf allies due to allegations that it was sponsoring extremist groups. However, Doha had denied those accusations, saying it had taken robust counter-terrorism measures.