Military intervention will not solve conflict in Syria, Yemen: Russian officials

Russian Federation Council Speaker Valentina Matviyenko, left, listens to UAE Speaker of the Federal National Council Amal Abdullah Al Qubaisi during a joint press conference in Abu Dhabi.

Peace in Syria and Yemen cannot be achieved through military intervention, but rather a cooperative bilateral joint, as greed by Russian and GCC diplomats, according to Valentina Matviyenko, the speaker of the Russian Federation Council during an official visit to the UAE.
During a conference held at the Federal National Council (FNC) on Wednesday in Abu Dhabi, Matviyenko and Dr Amal Al Qubaisi the FNC Speaker, highlighted that finding a peaceful solution to stabilise conflict in the region is crucial.
"During strategic discussions with GCC, it was agreed that it is impossible to find a solution through military intervention in Syria and Yemen," adding that, "it can only be found through dialogue between all the disputing sides."
She pointed out that "in order to achieve the vision of stability, security and safety," all conflicted parties must come together.
However she stressed that the only way to combat terrorism is through "the force of the weapon," but in order to end their roots "supplying terrorist organisations with weapons must be stopped."
"We cannot reach a solution expect through such joint efforts."
Matviyenko highlighted on the role that the UAE plays as the middle man, which may ease the tension that Russia has with political players in the region.
"First of all, we are in constant talks between UAE and Russia and UAE agrees with Russia on the matter of the Collective Security Treaty."
Dr Al Qubaisi said that during her discussions with Matviyenko, the two sides spoke about "the situations in Syria and Palestine...With a unified stance."
She also highlighted that both sides agreed that the situation of UAE's three occupied islands by Iran should be solved through either international courts, or diplomatic dialogue.
Dr Al Qubaisi said the UAE is thankful for Russia's attempt to find a solution and being "the mediator" between the two nations, despite Iran rejecting the initiative.
GCC foreign ministers will also be meeting with Russian diplomats in Moscow next month, to further discuss ways that can help reach solutions in conflicted countries though bilateral agreements, and strengthen their common ground.
His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and Matviyenko also met on Tuesday to discuss ways in strengthening the relationship between UAE and Russia.
They also agreed on ways to cooperate and combat terrorism, noting that "both countries have similar approaches."
"Russia has always called for a joint alliance against terrorism. We believe it is vital to work together with the UAE in that regard."
Matviyenko will also meet His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, on Wednesday.
 

• Abu Dhabi