Karachi, At the conclusion of the 6th session of the Russian-Arab Cooperation Forum in Marrakech, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov of Russia, alongside his Moroccan counterpart Nasser Bourita and Assistant Secretary-General of the League of Arab States Hossam Zaki, emphasized the importance of a candid dialogue and the convergence of approaches to various international and regional issues.
According to Embassy of The Russian Federation, the forum reviewed a wide range of challenges and threats in the Middle East and North Africa, underscoring the principle of non-interference and the need for national dialogue for domestic issues resolution. The ministers reiterated their commitment to the principles of the UN Charter, highlighting respect for independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity as key to regional stability and the increased role of Arab countries in resolving crises and conflicts.
The Palestinian-Israeli conflict, marked by an unprecedented escalation, was a primary focus. The ministers condemned terrorist acts and the collective punishment of civilians, advocating for a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza and assistance to those suffering from the humanitarian consequences of the blockade and hostilities. They expressed hope for the UN Security Council’s support in this humanitarian step.
The forum agreed to collaborate at the UN, including the Security Council and General Assembly, to advance these approaches. Lavrov stressed the importance of a comprehensive settlement of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, including the creation of an independent Palestinian state coexisting with Israel.
Discussions also covered the situations in Syria, Libya, Yemen, Sudan, and other crisis regions. The ministers hoped that Damascus’ return to the League of Arab States would aid in a political settlement in Syria based on respect for its sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.
Assessments of the situations in Africa, particularly the Sahel-Saharan region and Somalia, were exchanged, emphasizing the need to oppose terrorism and extremism. The importance of international efforts to combat terrorist groups was noted.
Lavrov highlighted the forum’s agreement to strengthen practical cooperation between Russia and the Arab world in various areas, including political dialogue, security, economic, trade, investment, cultural, educational, and humanitarian cooperation. This is outlined in the Joint Action Plan for 2024-2026, aiming for mutual benefit and full implementation.
Addressing a question about the changes in Russia’s relations with Arab states since the previous forum in 2019, Lavrov noted that many of the issues discussed were already pressing at that time. He detailed Russia’s perspectives on the Ukraine crisis and the situation in the Middle East, emphasizing the importance of a just settlement of conflicts based on international law.
Lavrov concluded by expressing gratitude for the hospitality extended by Morocco and the productive outcomes of the meeting.