Oman discusses regional tension with Russia, Germany

MUSCAT: Sayyid Badr bin Hamad al Busaidy, Foreign Minister, discussed the latest developments in the region during a telephone call on Thursday with Sergey Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.
The two ministers exchanged views on the means to contain these developments and promote political approaches and consensual solutions to address various issues and crises. This aims to solidify the foundations of security and stability and spare the region and the world further repercussions and tensions.
In a separate call, Sayyid Badr spoke with Johann Wadephul, Federal Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Germany.
During the conversation, the two ministers reviewed the relations and cooperation between the two countries and explored ways to enhance and develop them across various fields.
The two ministers also addressed the latest regional and international developments, exchanging views on current events and their implications for security and stability. They emphasised the importance of strengthening diplomatic efforts and supporting initiatives aimed at de-escalation and the settlement of conflicts through dialogue and peaceful means, alongside a commitment to international law and the Law of the Sea.
Meanwhile, the United States was waiting on Thursday for Iran to respond to its latest proposed deal to end the war in the Middle East and to reopen the key shipping lane out of the Gulf.
Oil prices tumbled five per cent after US President Donald Trump said once again that an agreement could be near after positive talks and Iran said it would pass on its latest position to mediator Pakistan.
Any agreement to prolong the ceasefire between the United States and Iran could also lower tensions in Lebanon, where an already fragile truce was under renewed strain after an Israeli strike on southern Beirut killed a Hezbollah commander. SEE ALSO P5