Mahash Saeed Al Hameli, the UAE Ambassador to the Republic of South Africa, on Monday met Dr. Rob Davies, Minister of Trade and Industry of the Republic of South Africa.

They discussed bilateral relations between the two countries and ways to develop them in all domains, especially in the economic field, as well as a number of issues and topics of mutual interest.

They also discussed Qatar's complaint to the World Trade Organisation, WTO. The ambassador said that severing relations with Doha is a political issue unrelated to the WTO and that the actions taken by the UAE are related to its sovereignty and national security and are compatible with the principles and foundations of international law.

The UAE diplomat added that the reason behind the measures taken by the four countries is Qatar's support for extremist and terrorist groups such as al-Qaeda, Al-Nusra Front and other terrorist organisations.

Al Hameli also explained that the UAE has issued a list of terrorists and entities, some of whom are located in Qatari territories. He stressed that the support provided by Doha to these terrorist and extremist groups represents an urgent security concern for neighbouring countries of Qatar and for regional and international security and stability.

The South African minister thanked the UAE Ambassador for briefing him about the current situation. He also noted that bilateral trade ties between the UAE and South Africa are of great significance.