Cabinet backs anti-money laundering reforms as Kuwait advances global compliance efforts

The Cabinet reaffirmed its full support for strengthening Kuwait’s national framework to combat money laundering, terrorist financing and the proliferation of weapons, stressing the importance of completing the approved action plan within the specified timeline in line with international standards and to reinforce the country’s financial and economic credibility.

The decision came during the weekly Cabinet meeting held Tuesday at Bayan Palace, chaired by Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Abdullah Al-Ahmed Al-Sabah.

The Cabinet reviewed a report presented by Minister of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy Dr. Subaih Abdulaziz Al-Mukhaizeem on the outcomes of Kuwait’s participation in the meeting of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in Mexico City, which he attended on behalf of the Minister of Finance, who oversees the National Committee for Combating Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing, reports Al-Rai daily.

According to the report, FATF praised Kuwait’s significant progress and intensive reforms undertaken since the adoption of its mutual evaluation report in June 2024.

The organization highlighted the country’s strong political commitment and coordinated institutional efforts that enhanced the effectiveness of the national system.

The meeting approved Kuwait’s action plan to continue developing its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing framework and placed the country under enhanced monitoring — a step aimed at sustaining reform momentum and ensuring continued implementation of required measures.

Building codes to address traffic challenges

The Cabinet also reviewed a presentation by Minister of State for Municipal Affairs and Minister of State for Housing Affairs Abdul Latif Al-Mashari on updating building regulations to better address traffic congestion.

The presentation outlined Kuwait Municipality’s efforts to modernize construction codes, the methodology adopted in revising regulations, and amendments designed to reduce traffic density across residential and commercial areas.

Officials emphasized that updated building standards form part of broader efforts to provide practical solutions to urban challenges while strengthening the municipality’s regulatory role and coordination with government entities.

Human trafficking strategy reviewed

In another agenda item, the Cabinet examined a report submitted by Minister of Justice Nasser Al-Sumait regarding recommendations prepared by the Permanent National Committee to Combat Trafficking in Persons and Smuggling of Migrants.

The report, presented in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ human rights sector, outlines proposals for a national strategy to combat human trafficking and mechanisms for implementation. The Cabinet referred the recommendations to the Ministerial Committee for Legal Affairs for further study and necessary action.

Ramadan greetings

At the start of the session, ministers extended congratulations to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, as well as citizens and residents, on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan, wishing continued security, prosperity and blessings for Kuwait.

Prime Minister briefs Cabinet on Munich Security Conference

The Prime Minister also briefed ministers on Kuwait’s participation in the Munich Security Conference, describing it as a key international platform addressing pressing global security challenges and promoting dialogue and cooperation.

He stressed that evolving global risks require coordinated international efforts and consensus-based solutions to enhance stability and strengthen peace. Kuwait, he said, remains committed to diplomacy, dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution.

On the sidelines of the conference, the Prime Minister held meetings with several international leaders and officials to discuss bilateral relations, regional developments and cooperation opportunities, including humanitarian coordination and digital transformation initiatives aimed at advancing Kuwait’s development vision.