UAE calls for talks with Iran over disputed islands

The President of the United Arab Emirates, Khalifa Bin Zayid Al-Nahyan called on Friday for Iran to sit at the negotiating table over three disputed islands, or go for international arbitration, Thenewkhalij.org has reported.

The islands of Tunb Al-Kubra (Greater Tunb), Tunb Al-Sughra (Lesser Tunb) and Abu Musa have been occupied by Iran since 1971. The UAE has been seeking help from international bodies to regain them, stressing that it has the necessary documents to prove that they are part of its sovereign territory.

“The UAE rejects any external interference that jeopardises its security and stability, as well as the security and stability of brothers in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and any other friendly state,” the President said in a speech marking the UAE’s 46th National Day. He also stressed the importance of those who support and fund terror being held accountable in order to be deterred.

Al-Nahyan hailed his country’s foreign policy which “proved its safety and effectiveness in the regional and international arenas.”

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