Russia, Saudi Arabia call for halt to military operations in Gaza

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
7 Dec 2023 16:00
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Following Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, Russia and Saudi Arabia have jointly called for a ceasefire in Gaza, as outlined in a Kremlin statement released on Thursday.

Russia's Vladimir Putin holds talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on December 6, 2023. (Kremlin pool photo via AP)

Russia and Saudi Arabia have expressed shared concern regarding the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, jointly calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, as outlined in a statement released on Thursday.

The Kremlin issued the statement following Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to Saudi Arabia on Wednesday.

"Both sides discussed the developments in the situation in Palestine, expressed deep concern about the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, and emphasized the need to end military operations in the Palestinian territories, as well as the need to protect civilians in accordance with international law and international humanitarian law," the statement read.

On the Yemeni issue, the statement added that Russia and Saudi Arabia endorse initiatives aimed at resolving the situation in Yemen through diplomatic and political means.

“Regarding Yemen, both sides emphasized full support for international and regional efforts to achieve a comprehensive political solution to the Yemen crisis,” the statement read.

Furthermore, Russia conveyed appreciation to Saudi Arabia for the nation's humanitarian and diplomatic endeavors in addressing the Ukrainian crisis, as stated in the announcement.

Russia also applauded the restoration of diplomatic ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran, viewing it as a positive step toward enhancing regional security.

"The Russian side welcomed the resumption of diplomatic relations between the [Saudi] Kingdom and Iran, expressing hope that this step will help strengthen security and stability in the region while maintaining the sovereignty of the countries and non-interference in their internal affairs," the statement read, as quoted by the Kremlin website.

Russia and Saudi Arabia underscored the significance of Iran's dedication to the peaceful character of its nuclear program, as per the statement.

On a different note, Russia and Saudi Arabia expressed approval for the League of Arab States (LAS) resolution to reintegrate the Syrian delegation into the meetings of the LAS Council of Foreign Ministers.

“With regard to Syria, both sides highly appreciated the decision of the League of Arab States to resume the participation of delegations of the Syrian government in the meetings of the Council of Ministers of the Arab League and related organizations and bodies and expressed the hope that this will contribute to supporting the stability and territorial integrity of the Syrian Arab Republic, resolving the Syrian crisis and facilitating the safe voluntary return of Syrian refugees to their homeland,” the statement read.

Russia, Saudi Arabia acknowledge OPEC+ efforts in oil market stability

The leaders of Russia and Saudi Arabia also expressed strong appreciation for the effective initiatives of OPEC+ nations in enhancing the stability of global oil markets.

"In the energy sector, both sides praised the close cooperation between them and the successful efforts of the OPEC+ countries to increase the stability of world oil markets. We emphasized the importance of continuing this cooperation and the need for all participating countries to join the OPEC+ agreement in a manner that serves the interests of producers and consumers and supports global economic growth," the statement read.

In the same context, Russia and Saudi Arabia have mutually decided to broaden their collaboration in the oil and gas sectors.

"The two sides agreed on the importance of expanding cooperation in the following areas: oil and gas, such as procurement, supply, and standardization of equipment in the field of oil and gas," the statement read.

Moscow and Riyadh also conveyed their gratitude for the growth in bilateral trade and expressed their commitment to ongoing efforts in this regard. Both parties underscored their intention to persist in enhancing mutual and joint investments.

"With regard to defense and security issues, the parties agreed to strengthen cooperation in the field of defense in such a way that it is aimed at supporting and achieving the common interests of the two countries," the statement added.

Both parties also highlighted the significance of endeavors to engage in dialogue with regional countries and eradicate potential security threats, reiterating their resolve to enhance collaboration in combating transnational corruption crimes.

Meanwhile, Russia and Saudi Arabia said they supported coordination and cooperation between the countries in international organizations, including the G20 group and the International Monetary Fund, as per the Kremlin's statement.

"Both sides recognized the importance of strengthening coordination and cooperation between the two countries in international organizations, including the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, and the G20, in confronting the economic challenges facing the world," the statement read.