Kuwait, China move to deepen defense cooperation amid regional security challenges
The Times Kuwait Report
Chinese Ambassador to Kuwait H.E. Yang Xin said Beijing is closely monitoring the rapidly evolving security situation in the Gulf, expressing deep concern over the renewed escalation and stressing the importance of respecting the sovereignty of all nations while protecting civilians and civilian infrastructure.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of celebrations marking the 99th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA), the ambassador said China was deeply concerned by what he described as a violation of the memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran.
The event was attended by Undersecretary of the Ministry of Defense Sheikh Dr. Abdullah Meshal Al-Sabah, Brigadier General Faisal Al-Ajil, Commander of the Kuwaiti Army’s Artillery Corps and representative of the Chief of the General Staff, along with members of the diplomatic corps and representatives of international organisations in Kuwait.
The ambassador reaffirmed China’s longstanding position in support of respecting the sovereignty and security of all countries, including Kuwait, and reiterated Beijing’s opposition to attacks on civilians or non-military facilities.
He said China is making every effort to help end hostilities as quickly as possible, noting that diplomatic initiatives are not always conducted publicly and that some mediation efforts take place behind the scenes. He expressed hope that these efforts would soon help restore peace, security and stability to the region.
Long-standing military partnership
Addressing military relations between Kuwait and China, Yang said the two countries enjoy a comprehensive strategic partnership that spans multiple sectors, including defence and security.
He stressed that military cooperation between the two nations has been in place for many years and is not a response to the current regional crisis.
The ambassador added that the partnership has already produced tangible results, some of which would be highlighted during the ongoing celebrations, noting that the Chinese military attaché could provide additional details on bilateral defence cooperation.
Responding to questions about whether Kuwait had requested Chinese weapons or military equipment, Yang said defence consultations and cooperation between the two countries have been ongoing for a long time, well before the latest escalation, without providing further details.
China continues peace efforts
Asked whether he expected the regional crisis to end soon, the ambassador said, “We have to wait and see. There are many factors involved.”
He added that China, together with other peace-loving nations, continues working to encourage all parties to return to dialogue and negotiations.
Yang also strongly condemned attacks on critical infrastructure and civilian facilities, including water and electricity installations, describing such actions as violations of the United Nations Charter, international law and the basic principles governing relations between states.
He further stated that attacks on oil tankers and civilian facilities are unacceptable because they constitute civilian objects protected under international law.
When asked whether continued attacks would undermine prospects for peace, the ambassador said only that China remains committed to bringing all relevant parties back to the negotiating table, declining to speculate on possible future scenarios.
China seeks stronger military cooperation
Meanwhile, Chinese Military Attaché to Kuwait Liu Zongchen reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to expanding military cooperation with Kuwait and strengthening collaboration between the armed forces of both countries to safeguard their shared interests while promoting regional security and stability.
Liu said the People’s Liberation Army, founded by the Communist Party of China, played a pivotal role in China’s liberation and continues under President Xi Jinping to modernise its capabilities with the goal of becoming one of the world’s leading armed forces.
He noted that China has maintained a consistent national defence policy for decades and continues to contribute to international peace and security.
Since 1990, China has deployed more than 50,000 personnel to United Nations peacekeeping missions across more than 20 conflict zones, making it the largest troop contributor among the permanent members of the UN Security Council.
The military attaché said China-Kuwait relations continue to deepen, particularly in defence cooperation, thanks to the support of President Xi Jinping and His Highness the Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, who have both placed significant importance on strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries.
He added that the Gulf region is passing through a sensitive period marked by rapid geopolitical changes and regional instability, while praising the resilience of the Kuwaiti people and the dedication and sacrifices of Kuwait’s armed forces.
Liu concluded that the Gulf stands at a critical crossroads between war and peace, creating new opportunities to strengthen defence and security cooperation between China and Kuwait.
He expressed his hope of working closely with the Kuwaiti Armed Forces to implement the agreements reached by the leaders of both countries and to deepen cooperation across multiple defence sectors in support of regional peace and stability.
