UAE, Qatar officials hold first meeting since Gulf dispute

An official delegation from both countries arrived in Kuwait to discuss developments of the Al-Ula agreement, which marked the restoration of diplomatic, trade and travel ties with Qatar, after Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain and Egypt severed ties in 2017. 

"The two sides discussed joint mechanisms and procedures for implementing the al-Ula statement," WAM reported. 

"They emphasised the importance of preserving Gulf kinship and developing joint Gulf action in the interest of GCC countries and their citizens, and of achieving stability and prosperity in the region."

Officials also thanked Saudi Arabia and Kuwait for their role in ending the dispute.

The Saud-UAE led quartet agreed to lift the restrictions on Qatar at the January GCC summit, which was held in the Saudi desert city of Al-Ula, after diplomatic efforts from the outgoing US President Donald Trump's administration.

Soon after the agreement, air and travel links between Qatar and the four states were restored.

Each state is set to undergo bilateral talks with Qatar to resolve individual issues and "rebuild trust", according to a UAE official.

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