Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, has discussed efforts to de-escalate the situation in the Middle East during a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Tehran, Doha’s foreign ministry says in a statement.

Among the matters reviewed was a “proposed phased framework” which includes establishing a temporary joint navigational corridor through the Strait of Hormuz, and agreements on the implementation of a joint project to clear the waterway of mines.

Al-Thani “emphasised, during the meeting, the necessity of respecting the sovereignty of neighbouring countries and the freedom of navigation, affirming the importance of continuing diplomatic efforts to reduce escalation and address differences through dialogue”, the Qatari foreign ministry says.