During his visit to Kuwait, Emirati President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed discussed with Sheikh Meshaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah paths for developing cooperation between the two countries.
In a joint statement, the Emirati President and the Emir of Kuwait stressed “the importance of cooperation to confront the challenges taking place in the region, stressing the importance of intensifying international efforts to achieve a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and provide protection for civilians,” according to the Kuwait News Agency - KUNA.
They also affirmed “the two countries’ keenness to support everything that strengthens the system of joint Gulf action, stressing the need to intensify work in order to prevent the expansion of the conflict in the region and spare it the consequences of new crises.”
Al-Sisi: Egypt is determined to make efforts to reduce the extent of killing and hunger in Gaza
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi stressed today, Sunday, “the great agreement with Malaysia on the importance of making every effort to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon and to bring in aid.”
Al-Sisi said, during a press conference with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, that “Egypt is determined to make efforts to reduce the extent of killing and hunger in the Gaza Strip,” stressing that “there is no solution to end the crises in the region except with a two-state solution.”
He added, “There is a great understanding between Egypt and Malaysia regarding cooperation between the two countries and its development, as well as regarding issues in the region,” adding, “We agreed on the importance of finding solutions to the issues of conflicts in Sudan, Libya, Syria, Yemen, and Lebanon.”
For his part, the Malaysian Prime Minister thanked the Egyptian President and the Egyptian support in the efforts to deliver humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, in addition to its role in finding a solution to the difficult situation in Gaza, stressing that the priority is a ceasefire in Gaza and the establishment of peace.
The Israeli bombing and ground operations in the Gaza Strip, since October 7, resulted in more than 43,000 dead and more than 102,000 injured, and the death toll from the Israeli raids on Lebanon rose to 2,867 dead and 13,047 injured since the start of the escalation.
Last updated: November 10, 2024 – 20:01
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Interview between the Time.news Editor and Regional Affairs Expert
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome to Time.news. Today, we’re delving into the recent discussions between Emirati President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and Emir Sheikh Meshaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah of Kuwait. With us is Dr. Sarah Al-Habib, an expert in regional diplomacy and Middle Eastern studies. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Al-Habib.
Dr. Sarah Al-Habib (SHA): Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
TNE: Let’s start with the context of the meeting in Kuwait. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed emphasized the importance of cooperation in the face of regional challenges. Why do you think this meeting was particularly timely?
SHA: The timing is critical given the escalating tensions in the region, particularly regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Both the UAE and Kuwait understand that regional instability can have significant ripple effects, so fostering collaboration is essential not only for their national interests but also for regional stability.
TNE: In their joint statement, both leaders stressed the need for international efforts focused on achieving a ceasefire in Gaza. What role do you think the UAE and Kuwait can play in facilitating such efforts?
SHA: Both nations have a history of diplomatic engagement and can leverage their relationships with various international actors. Their joint advocacy for a ceasefire demonstrates a united Gulf front, and they possess the influence to encourage other nations to prioritize humanitarian assistance in conflict zones. Their focus on protecting civilians further highlights the moral imperative driving their diplomatic efforts.
TNE: President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt also mentioned the necessity of reducing violence and hunger in Gaza. How does Egypt’s position interconnect with that of the UAE and Kuwait?
SHA: Egypt plays a pivotal role as a mediator in conflicts involving Palestinian groups, and its alignment with the UAE and Kuwait further strengthens Gulf cooperation. By emphasizing humanitarian aid alongside ceasefire efforts, these countries recognize the urgent need to address the human costs of conflict, which may bolster their standing in international forums and highlight the Arab world’s commitment to peace.
TNE: Both leaders expressed a commitment to preventing further escalation of conflict in the region. What are some practical steps they could take to achieve that?
SHA: Practical steps could include establishing a coalition for humanitarian aid to Gaza, facilitating dialogue between conflicting parties, and engaging the international community to apply pressure for peaceful resolutions. Additionally, they might consider joint military and security initiatives to monitor conflict hotspots and prevent the spillover of violence.
TNE: Given the current geopolitical landscape, what challenges do you foresee in maintaining this focus on cooperation among Gulf states?
SHA: One major challenge is the differing political landscapes and priorities of Gulf nations. Historical rivalries, such as those seen during the Qatar blockade, can complicate cooperative efforts. Moreover, external influences, such as Western foreign policies or evolving relationships with Iran, could also challenge mutual cooperation. The key will be for these nations to foster trust and dialogue to navigate these complexities.
TNE: As we look ahead, what message do you believe the actions of the UAE and Kuwait send to the global community?
SHA: Their actions send a strong message of solidarity and proactive diplomacy. In a region often characterized by conflict, their collaboration emphasizes the importance of dialogue, humanitarian assistance, and regional unity. It signals that Gulf nations are not just passive observers but active participants in working toward peace and stability.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Al-Habib, for your insights into this important topic. It’s crucial to understand the regional dynamics at play, especially as the situation in Gaza continues to evolve.
SHA: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure to discuss these pressing issues.
TNE: And thank you to our audience for tuning in to this timely discussion. Stay informed with Time.news as we continue to follow developments in the region.