site.btaPM Borissov Has Telephone Conversation with Qatari Counterpart Abdullah

Sofia, July 18 (BTA) - Prime Minister Boyko Borissov had a telephone conversation with his Qatari counterpart Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani in connection with the diplomatic crisis that has emerged between some Arab states and Qatar, Cabinet's Press Service reported Tuesday.

The Bulgarian Prime Minister stressed the importance of stability in the Persian Gulf for Bulgaria and the Balkans, adding that Bulgaria welcomes and supports resolving the crisis by political means and through diplomacy.

Borissov also expressed the Bulgarian side's desire for a peaceful and quick settlement of the crisis, which emerged in a region that is both close and important to Bulgaria. He noted his firm position against any further escalation of tension, and against the intervention by factors foreign to the region. Borissov also stressed the importance of preserving the stability of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf, which is in the whole region's interest.

PM Borissov also noted that this country values its friendly relations with Arab countries, underscoring cooperation with Qatar. Starting this July, Bulgaria assumed the local representation of the EU in Doha.