The corniche in Doha, Qatar, June 15, 2017 (Photo: Reuters) |
Speaking in Doha, the first stop in his Gulf visit to seek for a crisis solution, Le Drian expressed France’s concern on the sudden deterioration in relations between Qatar and many of its neighbors. He said France hopes to support the mediation led by Kuwait, adding that France was talking to all the states involved to find a solution, while calling for "dialogue and calm". He said France appreciates the strong cooperation with Qatar in the fight against terrorism.
The Qatari foreign minister welcomed France's support for mediation aimed at finding a solution based on constructive dialogue and respect of national sovereignty and international law. He said the fight against terror needs collective efforts instead of putting pressure on a state.
After Qatar, Le Drian is set to visit Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates.