Sergey Lavrov, the Foreign Minister of Russia, at a press conference following the ninth round of strategic dialogue between Russia and the Gulf Cooperation Council in Manama, emphasized the need for a more comprehensive approach to security issues in the Persian Gulf region. Lavrov stated that Russia supports the establishment of a security structure in this region that includes all Gulf countries, including Arab states and the Islamic Republic of Iran, as well as their close neighbors, such as Iraq and Jordan.
The Need for Regional and International Cooperation
The Russian Foreign Minister added: "Foreign actors can also support this process, but they should prioritize the interests of the countries in the region instead of pursuing their own unilateral geopolitical agendas." These statements reflect Moscow's approach to multilateral cooperation in regional security and highlight the importance of mutual understanding among regional countries and global powers.
Addressing the Roots of the Crisis in the Strait of Hormuz
Lavrov also emphasized the need to address the roots of the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz and its surrounding areas, stating: "This issue should be pursued, including within the framework of the 'Islamabad Memorandum.'" He clarified that the Islamabad Agreement still encompasses all necessary elements to move the situation away from its current state and return it to a path of political and diplomatic negotiations.
The head of Russia's diplomatic service further referred to the Yemen crisis, stating: "Russia and its partners in the Gulf Cooperation Council support finding a political and diplomatic solution to the Yemen crisis." He expressed hope that the necessary conditions for this process, including the 2023 roadmap developed with the active role and initiative of Saudi Arabia, would become available.
Lavrov's statements reflect Russia's ongoing efforts to strengthen relations with Gulf countries and play a role in resolving regional crises. While tensions in the Persian Gulf and its surroundings are evident, this outlook towards cooperation and the establishment of a comprehensive security structure can be seen as a positive step towards stabilizing security and stability in this sensitive region.
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