(Kremlin): Putin Emphasizes Importance of Coordination with Qatar for Energy Market Stability, Supports Diplomatic Resolution of Iran Dispute

Moscow -- Russian President Vladimir Putin affirmed on Tuesday his country’s commitment to enhancing coordination with the State of Qatar to contribute to the stabilization of energy markets, reiterating Moscow’s support for resolving the dispute with Iran through political and diplomatic means, and expressing readiness to contribute to efforts to contain tensions in the Middle East. The Kremlin said in a statement that this came during Putin’s meeting with the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, on the sidelines of the eighth summit of heads of state and government of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) held in the Russian capital, Moscow. According to the statement, Putin praised the level of Russian-Qatari relations, noting the growing trade between the two countries, the development of people-to-people ties, and increased tourist exchanges. He stressed the importance of coordination between Moscow and Doha to ensure the stability of energy markets, emphasizing the necessity of continued cooperation between the two countries on the international stage, and commending Qatar’s role in mediation aimed at resolving crises in the Gulf region. On the level of regional developments, Putin reiterated Russia’s position calling for a ceasefire and reaching a settlement with Iran through political and diplomatic channels, expressing his country’s readiness to contribute to addressing the complex situation in the Middle East. The statement noted Putin’s reference to the continued importance of the US-Iran memorandum of understanding signed in Islamabad within the framework of settlement efforts, enabling continued moves aimed at de-escalation and reaching political understandings. The Russian-Qatari talks coincide with the participation of the Emir of Qatar in the eighth GECF summit in Moscow, amid growing challenges related to energy security and supply stability in light of regional tensions and their repercussions on international trade and navigation. (End) D.A.N./M.A.K.