LOC01:11
22:11 GMT
ABU DHABI, Dec 13 (KUNA) -- The UAE welcomed on Thursday the announcement by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia of the establishment of the Arab and African Coastal States of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden grouping.
"This is a pioneering initiative which will help develop the regional joint action and safeguard the security and stability of this strategic region," WAM quoted UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Dr. Anwar Gargash as saying.
"The Saudi efforts to maintain stability and co-operation in the Red Sea region are inspiring and that the initiative in itself is a diplomatic success for the countries of the region, led by Riyadh with effort and professionalism.
"This promising development enhances peace and prosperity in the region," the minister said.
"This initiative will promote coordination between the Arab and regional countries with littorals on the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden in all fields, enhance their interests and support efforts to establish stability at the regional and international levels," he went on.
The new entity will contribute to protecting international trade and international shipping movements and would enhance security, investment and development in these countries, Dr. Gargash added.
Seven Red Sea and Gulf of Aden littoral countries unveiled the grouping following their meeting in Riyadh yesterday; these are Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Sudan, Djibouti, Yemen, Somalia and Jordan. (end)
bs.sam.gb