A+ A-

Arab-Indian talks vital to resolve int'l issues - Kuwait deputy FM

Deputy Foreign Minister Khaled Suleiman Al-Jarallah at the ministerial meeting of the Arab-India Cooperation Forum (AICF)
Deputy Foreign Minister Khaled Suleiman Al-Jarallah at the ministerial meeting of the Arab-India Cooperation Forum (AICF)
MANAMAH, Jan 24 (KUNA) -- Kuwait's Deputy Foreign Minister Khaled Suleiman Al-Jarallah stressed the importance of Arab-Indian dialogue as a path to cooperation on the fight against terrorism and issues of mutual concern.
"Recent developments in Syria, Libya and Yemen, the tension between Iran and Saudi Arabia and increasing international terrorist attacks are threatening security and stability everywhere," Al-Jarallah said at the ministerial meeting of the Arab-India Cooperation Forum (AICF), held in Bahrain on Sunday.
The minister also mentioned the recent attacks on the Saudi Embassy in Iran, and the Iranian occupation of Emirati islands that is leading to further tension in the region.
"We Arabs looks forward to cooperate with India in facing such challenges and benefitting from the country's role in resolving international issues," the official said.
Meanwhile, Al-Jarallah noted the strong historical ties between Kuwait and India on all levels. He also added that trade exchange between the two countries is currently estimated at USD 18 billion dollars.
Moreover, the two sides share a strong economic partnership, as trade balance between them has jumped from about USD five billion in 2011 to about USD 50 billion in 2014, said the minister.
On his part, Bahraini Minister of Foreign Affairs Khalid bin Ahmed Al-Khalifa said that trade exchange between the GCC states and India was recorded at USD 200 billion in 2014.
The FM, meanwhile, stressed on the importance creating further cooperation between the two sides. He also called for expanding permanent and non-permanent membership in the Security Council, to equally allow all world powers to represent their regions and play effective roles in resolving issues.
Furthermore, Secretary General of the Arab League Nabil Al-Araby hoped India would play a role in supporting Arabs' efforts in the Palestinian Cause. Israel is violating holy monuments including mosques in Palestine and expanding its settlements, he said, adding that international laws issued on the case are not yet implemented or respected by Israel.(end) mga.ag