International Relations and Cooperation Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane is on a Working Visit to the State of Qatar aimed at strengthening relations between South Africa and Qatar.
The Minister paid a courtesy call on the Emir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani. The Minister recalled the recent successful State Visit to South Africa by the Emir, which was preceded by the State Visit to Qatar in May 2016 by His Excellency President Jacob Zuma.
The Minister was due to hold bilateral talks later today, 11 July 2017, with her Qatari counterpart, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani. The two Ministers are expected to discuss the status of diplomatic and trade relations between South Africa and Qatar as well as developments in their respective regions.
The South African government reiterates its concern regarding the continued crisis in the Gulf, noting the decision of several states in the region to sever diplomatic and other ties with the State of Qatar on 5 June 2017, which includes a blockade of land and maritime borders, and air space.
South Africa calls upon the affected countries to seek reasonable and attainable solutions in the interests of a de-escalation of the crisis, noting the humanitarian impact and long term consequences of the current situation.
Regional peace and stability in the GCC region is extremely important for international trade especially energy security, hence the call for dialogue between affected countries for a peaceful resolution.
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Mr Clayson Monyela
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