The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced on Monday that it has made a request to the French government for the provision of “all necessary consular services urgently” for Pável Dúrov, the founder of Telegram, who also possesses Emirati nationality.
“The UAE is closely monitoring the case of its citizen Pavel Durov, founder of Telegram, who was detained by French authorities at Paris-Le Bourget airport, emphasizing that the UAE has requested the Government of the French Republic to urgently provide him with all essential consular services,” stated the UAE Foreign Ministry.
The department added that the Emirates is “closely following the case of its citizen” who also holds Russian and French nationalities and was arrested on Saturday night by French authorities at the private airport near Paris.
“Prioritizing the welfare of UAE citizens, protecting their interests, and offering them all forms of support is a key priority for the UAE,” the foreign ministry mentioned in the statement, without disclosing further details.
The French Prosecutor’s Office stated on Monday that Durov’s arrest, at 39 years old, was part of an investigation involving several charges, including complicity in the dissemination of pedophilic images, fraud, and drug trafficking.
Investigation into the Telegram CEO
The judicial investigation was initiated on July 8 following preliminary inquiries conducted by the cybercrime section of the Paris Public Prosecutor’s Office.
The charges against Durov include complicity in managing an online platform facilitating illicit transactions for organized crime, failure to comply with authorities by not sharing necessary documents or information to prevent illegal activities, as well as complicity in fraud and drug trafficking.
The charges against Durov were disclosed shortly after French President Emmanuel Macron, who publicly addressed the case, firmly rejected claims that the arrest was “a political decision”.
In the wake of the arrest, the encrypted messaging platform released a statement asserting that the service “complies with European Union (EU) laws, including the Digital Services Act” and that “its moderation adheres to industry standards and is continually improving.”
Pavel Durov Detained in France: UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs Steps In
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced on Monday a formal request directed at the French government to expedite “all necessary consular services urgently” for Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, who additionally possesses Emirati nationality.
In an official statement, the UAE Foreign Ministry emphasized its commitment to the case of its citizen, Durov, who was detained by French authorities upon arrival at Paris-Le Bourget airport. Abu Dhabi reiterated its position, stating, “The UAE is closely following the case of its citizen, stressing that the UAE has submitted a request to the Government of the French Republic to provide him with all necessary consular services as a matter of urgency.”
The department simply added that the Emirates is “closely following the case of its citizen.” Durov, who also holds Russian and French nationalities, was taken into custody Saturday night at a private airport near Paris.
UAE’s Commitment to Citizen Support
The UAE Foreign Ministry highlighted the prioritization of its citizens’ well-being, stating, “prioritizing the well-being of UAE citizens, safeguarding their interests, and providing them with all kinds of support is a key priority for the UAE.” Specifics concerning the consular services were not disclosed.
Legal Background of Durov’s Arrest
The recent detention of Pavel Durov stems from a range of allegations being investigated by the French Prosecutor’s Office. These allegations include:
- Complicity in the dissemination of paedophile images
- Fraud
- Drug trafficking
Investigation against Telegram CEO
A judicial investigation began on July 8, prompted by preliminary inquiries from the cybercrime section of the Paris Public Prosecutor’s Office. The detailed accusations leveled against Durov are extensive, describing him as:
- Complicit in administering an online platform facilitating illicit transactions
- Non-compliant with authorities regarding the sharing of documents or information
- Involvement in fraud and drug trafficking operations
Public Statements and Reactions
French President Emmanuel Macron, addressing the media, refuted any notion that Durov’s arrest was politically motivated, asserting the decision was made purely within the context of legal and judicial processes.
Response from Telegram
In light of the arrest, Telegram released a statement stressing that the messaging platform operates within the regulatory frameworks set by European Union (EU) laws, including the Digital Services Act. The company emphasized that it continually works to enhance its moderation practices to align with industry standards.
Potential Implications for Telegram
The implications of Durov’s arrest extend beyond legal challenges; they also raise important discussions regarding privacy, the role of encrypted messaging platforms, and their responsibilities in curbing illicit activities. Here are a few considerations:
1. Regulatory Compliance
With increased scrutiny following incidents like this, messaging platforms may face heightened regulatory pressures to ensure compliance with data protection and anti-trafficking laws.
2. Public Perception
Durov’s arrest could influence public perception of Telegram as a safe platform for communication, impacting user trust and engagement.
3. Potential Changes in Operations
A change in leadership or strategy may be necessary if legal challenges impact Durov’s ability to manage Telegram effectively.
Conclusion
The situation surrounding Pavel Durov remains fluid. As the UAE government presses for urgent consular support and further details of the charges come to light, the emphasis on safeguarding citizen rights and providing accessible legal assistance remains paramount. The developments in this case will undoubtedly capture the attention of the tech world, especially in the realm of encrypted communications and digital privacy.
