Foreign Minister meets EU foreign policy chief

Oman's Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi met in Brussels with Josep Borrell, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission.

They discussed the tragic situation in the Gaza Strip and its repercussions for the region and the world. They agreed that the priorities were to contain the crisis, prevent its escalation and establish a ceasefire to save lives and open corridors for humanitarian aid.

They said the release of hostages would create a climate of hope for all parties on the path to a two-state solution and the right to Palestinian self-determination.

Sayyid Badr stressed Oman's position calling for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state in order for lasting peace to prevail in the region. He said the international community had a responsibility to stop the war and its repercussions.

Mr Borrell said the EU attached great importance to the pursuit of peace and stability and would continue to work towards an end to the Arab-Israeli conflict.

The meeting was attended by Rua Issa Ashraf Alzadjali, Oman's Ambassador to the European Union, and a number of officials from both sides.

This is an unofficial English version of an Arabic report. To view the official Arabic text, click here.