Muscat: In a speech on Saturday to the UN General Assembly, Oman’s minister for Foreign Affairs, Yousuf Bin Alawi Bin Abdullah insisted on the importance of dialogue in solving conflict.
Oman, known for its role as mediator regional conflicts, has been heavily invovled in negotiations between Iran and its neighbours over various regional disputes including Syria and Yemen.
“We are convinced that dialogue is the natural foundation upon which all forms of conflict can be resolved. Throughout history, mankind has aspired to enhance confidence on the basis of agreed and conciliatory ideas, and that principles of the United Nations Charter deepen and widen common interests and mutual benefits”, said Bin Alawi.
Bin Alawi also welcomed the agreement reached between Western powers and Iran over its nuclear programme.
“Despite the fact that this breakthrough took a considerable amount of time and great effort, it constitutes a model for solving controversial and complicated issues between countries, on the basis of dialogue and negotiations and regulating of international interests. We hope that this historic agreement will reflect positively on regional and international peace and security, and pave the way for a new area of relations, based on cooperation, respect, and mutual trust,” he said in his speech. Bin Alawi said that Oman was following with ‘great concern’ developments in Yemen’s humanitarian crisis.
“While we understand the circumstances that led to igniting this crisis, we believe that the political parties in Yemen are still able to restore security and stability,” he said.
Bin Alawi urged all political forces in Yemen to support the efforts of UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy, Esmail Ould Shaikh Ahmad to contribute in restoring peace and stability in Yemen, and to achieve the aspirations of the Yemeni people for a safe and dignified life.
Bin Alawi said the Syrian people, many who have become refugees to the five-year conflict, were living under ‘unprecedented’ conditions in modern history.
He called on all Syrian parties and involved players to suppor the UN mission to restore security and stability to the country and to eradicate terrorism.
“My country reiterates its uncompromising stance in condemning all forms of terrorisms, irrespective of their causes and motivations.”, said Bin Alawi.
