Relaxation in the Islands crisis between Emirates and Iran

A dispute over three Gulf islands which led to tension between the United Arab Emirates and Iran is seeing relaxation as both countries show desire to resolve this problem peacefully.

Diplomatic sources in Abu Dahbi stated that Kamal El-Kharazi, the Iranian foreign minister, will visit the Emirates next month. The sources said that the Emirates are welcoming the Iranian minister's visit and that it paves the way for a visit from Iran's president, Mohammed Khatami.

The sources said that Kharazi's visit was arranged in a meeting held by Hamdan Bin Zayed Al-Nuhayyan, the Emirati minister of state for foreign affairs, with Hussein Seidki, in the Emirates.

Iran stated through its foreign minister that it is eager to resolve the dispute with Emirates concerning Greater and Lesser Tanb and Abu Moussa.