Russia, Bahrain stress need for political solution to Middle East crisis

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov held talks with his Bahraini counterpart Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, during which the two sides discussed the situation in the Middle East, TASS reported.

Al Zayani said the situation in the region was developing in a dangerous direction and stressed the need for de-escalation.

“In recent months, there has been a dangerous development of the situation in our region,” he said. “We attach great importance to international efforts aimed at de-escalation [of the Middle East crisis], at ensuring respect for the sovereignty of states. We know that Russia plays a very large role in achieving this goal.”

According to him, history shows that Russia has always sought to achieve security, stability, calm and prosperity in all regions of the world.

Bahrain highly values coordination with Russia on international platforms and hopes for the continuation of bilateral consultations, which would contribute to strengthening regional and international security, Al Zayani said.

“We know that Russia pays great attention to ensuring the security of international shipping. We know that you believe that a solution to the crisis can be found through political and diplomatic means,” the Bahraini foreign minister said.

“We highly appreciate the coordination that exists between our states on international platforms, primarily in the [UN] Security Council. We hope for the continuation of consultations and joint work, including within the framework of today’s meeting, which will also contribute to strengthening regional and international security,” he added, thanking his counterpart for the warm welcome and hospitality.

Lavrov, for his part, reaffirmed Moscow’s commitment to the principle of freedom of navigation both in the Middle East and globally.

“We are certainly committed to the principle of freedom of navigation both in your region and in the global context,” the Russian foreign minister said, addressing his Bahraini counterpart.

By Tamilla Hasanova