UAE Move to Seek Consular Services for Arrested Telegram CEO Pavel Durov

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has taken decisive diplomatic steps following the arrest of Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, in France.

Durov, a Dubai-based tech billionaire who holds dual citizenship in the UAE and France, was detained at Paris-Le Bourget Airport over allegations related to the spread of illegal content on the messaging platform.

In a statement released on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, the UAE’s foreign ministry expressed its concern over Durov’s arrest and emphasized its commitment to providing support.

The ministry stated, "The UAE is closely following the case of its citizen Pavel Durov, founder of Telegram, who was arrested by the French authorities in Paris. We have submitted a request to the Government of the French Republic to provide him with all the necessary consular services in an urgent manner."

Durov, aged 39, is a prominent entrepreneur who established Telegram after leaving Russia a decade ago. The app now boasts over 900 million users worldwide.

Despite the accusations from French authorities, which claim that Durov failed to adequately address the spread of illegal content on Telegram, the company has strongly denied these allegations.

Telegram insists that it complies with EU regulations, including the Digital Services Act, and maintains that its content moderation practices align with industry standards.

French President Emmanuel Macron has dismissed suggestions of political motives behind Durov’s arrest, as the tech leader remains in custody for further questioning.

The Kremlin has also expressed concern, with spokesman Dmitry Peskov stating that Moscow has received no information from France regarding the charges against Durov.