Qatar expresses regret over developing crisis

05 June 2017

State maintains allegations behind measures are baseless

Qatar’s Foreign Affairs Ministry has expressed regret over the decision of Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain to close their borders and airspace and cut off diplomatic relations over “baseless allegations”.

“Qatar is an active member of the GCC and adheres to its charter, respects the sovereignty of other countries, does not interfere in its internal affairs, and carries out its duties in the fight against terrorism and extremism,” the statement in Arabic, carried by the Qatar News Agency, said.

These measures will not affect the normal course of life for citizens and residents, the statement said. “The Qatari government will take all necessary measures to ensure this and to thwart attempts to influence and harm the Qatari society and economy.”

The statement stressed that the ongoing media campaign against Qatar has failed to convince public opinion. "The fabrication of reasons for taking action against a sister country in the GCC is clear evidence that there is no legitimate justification for these measures, which were taken in coordination with Egypt,” the statement, translated into English by local media, said.

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