Bahrain has pledged its support for the civilised and peaceful approach by the UAE to resolve the issue of three occupied islands, either through direct negotiations or amicably through international arbitration.

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ghanim Al Buainain on Friday lauded the UAE for its policy of self-restraint and keenness on maintaining good neighbourly relations, calling for the dispute to be settled peacefully so as to maintain peace and security in the region.

Al Buainain urged Iran to stop its provocative practices and statements as they would only further strain GCC-Iranian relations and curb efforts aimed at enhancing co-operation and mutual co-ordination.

He voiced Bahrain's principled stance as he attended an extraordinary Arab League Council ministerial meeting in Cairo.

Chaired by Kuwaiti Deputy Premier, Foreign Minister and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs Shaikh Sabah Al Khalid Al Sabah, the session discussed issues on the agenda relating to the consequences of the Iranian president's recent visit to the disputed Iranian-occupied Island of Abu Musa.

The session also discussed developments on the ground in Syria, urging, in this regard, the Syrian government to ensure inclusive implementation of the Joint Special Envoy of the UN and Arab League Kofi Annan's plan to facilitate the deployment of the monitors and ensure freedom of movement throughout the country.

It also condemned killings and acts of violence targeting innocent civilians, urging the Arab League secretary-general to convene all components of the Syrian opposition for a meeting in Cairo next month.

The session expressed solidarity with Sudan, backing its right to safeguard its security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity following South Sudan's "military aggression" against Sudanese territories in Heglig.-TradeArabia News Service