Treaty not at the expense of Palestine rights: UAE

Cairo - Dr Anwar Gargash reiterated that the agreement with Israel included a commitment by Tel Aviv to stop annexation of Palestinian land.

The UAE on Wednesday said the peace treaty with Israel will not be at the expense of the Palestinian cause and the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people.
Dr Anwar Gargash, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, reiterated that the agreement with Israel included a commitment by Tel Aviv to stop annexation of Palestinian land, which constitutes an achievement and is an important step towards peace.
Presenting the treaty as an opportunity to revive peace efforts, the UAE minister said the solution to the long-standing issue lies in the hands of Palestinians and Israelis.
Speaking at a remote meeting of Arab League foreign ministers, he affirmed the UAE's position on supporting the establishment of a Palestinian state based on the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Stating that the UAE decision to normalise relations with Israel was part of its sovereign policy, the minister said the treaty was not aimed at any third party and not part of any polarisation of the region.
Reiterating the brotherly and fraternal relationship between Palestinians and Emiratis, the minister said the Emirates' Rulers are extending all support to the development of the Palestinian community living in the UAE.
Decrying increasing foreign interference in Arab affairs, the minister drew attention to the policies of Turkey which has been making statements threatening the sovereignty, security and stability of states in the region, and slammed its antagonistic role in the Mediterranean Sea.
Referring to the age-old problem of Iran, Dr Gargash condemned Tehran's support for armed militias and terrorist groups in some Arab states. Stating that the clerical regime is threatening the safety of maritime traffic in Gulf, the minister asked Iran respect the rules of good neighbourliness.
Broaching the issue of the three occupied Emirati islands of Greater and Lesser Tunbs and Abu Musa, the minister called for either direct negotiations or arbitration by International Court of Justice to resolve the issue.
Referring to Yemen issue, Dr Gargash reiterated support to Saudi coalition in their fight against Houthis and called on all parties to implement the provisions of the Riyadh Agreement.