France calls on Gulf countries to reduce tension

Paris, July 15 (IANS) French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian on Saturday called on Arab countries to make efforts to reduce tension in the region, noting that the current diplomatic crisis with Qatar benefited nobody.

Le Drian made his remarks in a press conference with Qatari Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Efe news reported.

The French minister expressed his country's concern about the deterioration of relations between Qatar and its neighbours.

Le Drian urged the countries boycotting Qatar to lift measures affecting civilians, particularly dual-nationality families and students, as soon as possible.

He supported the mediation efforts of Kuwait and other countries, including the US, stressing that terrorism should be countered.

Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain cut ties with Qatar in June, accusing the Gulf state of supporting terrorist groups.

The Qatari minister said these Arab countries' decision to break ties with Doha slowed down the fight against terrorism and hindered international efforts in this regard.

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