UAE and Qatari delegations meet in Kuwait to discuss next steps after Al Ula Declaration

The historic agreement signed on 14 January in Saudi Arabia aims to re-invigorate Gulf unity

From left, Kuwait Emir Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Sabah, Qatar Emir Sheikh Tamim, Omani Deputy Prime Minister Fahd bin Mahmoud, Saudi Arabia Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, Bahrain Show more

Official delegations representing the United Arab Emirates and the state of Qatar met in Kuwait on Monday in the first meeting between the two sides. The purpose of the meeting was to follow up on the Al Ula Declaration signed in Saudi Arabia on January 14.

The two sides discussed joint mechanisms and procedures to implement the Declaration and underscored the importance of preserving Gulf unity, developing joint action in the interest of Gulf Co-operation Council countries and their citizens, and achieving stability and prosperity in the region, Wam reported.

Furthermore, the two sides praised the efforts of Saudi Arabia in hosting the last GCC Summit, which resulted in the Al Ula Declaration.

The two sides also expressed their appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Nawaf, Emir of Kuwait, for the sincere efforts made by his country to heal the rift and support the Gulf Co-operation Council, in addition to hosting the first meeting between both countries.

Following the agreement which effectively restored diplomatic ties between Qatar and its neighbouring Gulf nations, Qataris made over 1,200 trips to and from the UAE after it reopened air, land and sea borders with Qatar on January 9.

In his opening statement at the Al Ula summit, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman said the region needed a co-ordinated effort to face regional challenges including those regarding Iran's nuclear and ballistic missiles programmes.