UAE supports Iran's peaceful use of N-power

Doha: GCC countries have no objection to Iran's use of nuclear power for peaceful purposes, provided they are reassured by the International Atomic Energy Agency regarding the security and environmental safety of the project, a top official has said.

"We are, collectively and individually, considering nuclear power as a source of alternative energy," Shaikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Foreign Minister, told Qatari daily Al Sharq.

"We would like to see an end to the conflict between Iran and the international community through a serious dialogue that takes into consideration the interests of all sides," Shaikh Abdullah said.

With regard to the three UAE islands occupied by Iran, Shaikh Abdullah said ignoring the problem is a constant threat to the security and stability of the region, and the issue is not only on the agenda of the GCC summit, but was discussed in Arab summits and United Nations meetings since the occupation of the islands in 1971.

Negotiations

"The UAE always resorted to peaceful means such as negotiations and the international law, and is ready to accept any solution reached through these means. We hope Iran would accept our extended hand to reach a just resolution," he added.

When asked about Yemen's membership in some GCC establishments, Shaikh Abdullah said GCC countries believe that Yemen would be a vital addition to the council, hence asking Yemen to join some establishments was a preliminary step towards full membership, when the circumstances are right.

The UAE is closely monitoring the situation in Iraq, Shaikh Abdullah said.

"Although we feel positive about the improving security situation, but what has been achieved is still far from what we hope, and the level GCC countries consider safe enough," he said.

Concerning the situations in Palestine, Shaikh Abdullah said GCC countries participated in the Annapolis peace conference to give a push to the peace process to reach a permanent and just resolution within a certain timeframe.