The UAE has strongly condemned the blatant Iranian interference in the internal affairs of the Kingdom of Bahrain and Tehran's failure to observe principles of good neighbourliness, which represent a clear violation of the international norms, conventions and charters. In a statement, Dr. Anwar bin Mohammed Gargash, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, condemned Iran's repeated attempts to stir sectarian strife among the people of the Kingdom of Bahrain. He said that the UAE has followed, with strong indignation, the statements made by official departments in Iran, which constitute blatant transgression of an independent and sovereign country and of its identity and Arabism, calling for the importance of retracting and stopping these statements. Dr. Gargash was surprised at the Iranian calls to open a new page with the countries of the region in order to combat terrorism at a time when, ironically, Tehran is trying to destabilise the security and stability of countries in the region in general and Bahrain in particular through training terrorist groups, providing shelter to those who escaped from justice and attempts to smuggle weapons and explosives into Bahrain. "The Bahraini authorities foiled a few days ago these subversive acts that aimed at undermining the security and stability of Bahrain." He emphasised that the remarks and attempts made by the officials in Iran "do not reflect a desire to improve relations or enhance an atmosphere of stability in the region. Instead, these would contribute towards creating tension and igniting sectarian strife through provocative statements which are contrary to all international charters and laws, besides being completely incompatible with the true values of Islam and its tolerant principles." Dr. Gargash also denounced the terrorist blast in Bahrain, which killed two policemen and critically injured a third in the area of Sitra. He also emphasised that the security and stability of Bahrain is a cornerstone in the security and stability of GCC. He also praised the Bahraini cultural figures who had expressed their support, adding that they are united behind their wise leadership. He concluded by reiterating the UAE's complete support to the actions and measures taken by the Kingdom of Bahrain to enhance its security, stability and safety of its people.
