India has urged the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to resolve their differences with Qatar through dialogue. With over eight million Indian expatriates living and working in these countries, India on Saturday said it has vital stakes in the regional peace and stability. Apart from India, several other countries have asked Saudi Arabia-led regional grouping of Islamic countries to sort out their difference through dialogue and end blockade of Qatar.
“We are closely following the emerging situation in the Gulf region in the wake of the recent decision by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and some other countries to break diplomatic relations with the State of Qatar. We are of the view that all parties should resolve their differences through a process of constructive dialogue and peaceful negotiations based on well-established international principles of mutual respect, sovereignty and non interference in the internal affairs of other countries,” Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.
It added, India believes that peace and security in the Gulf are of paramount importance for the continued progress and prosperity of the countries in the region. “International terrorism, violent extremism and religious intolerance pose grave threat not only to regional stability but also to the global peace and order and must be confronted by all countries in a coordinated and comprehensive manner. India has time-tested friendly relations with GCC countries. With over eight million Indian expatriates living and working in these countries, we have vital stakes in the regional peace and stability,” the MEA said.
In this context, the Government is closely monitoring the situation and is also in regular contact with the regional countries.
“Their authorities have assured us continued support for welfare and well-being of the resident Indian communities. Indian expatriates in the region are advised to contact the Indian Embassy or Consulate concerned should they require assistance or advise consequent to the developing situation,” the statement said.