Kuwait, U.S. press Iraq to finish demarcation of maritime borders

• The strategic dialogue between Kuwait and the United States underscored the enduring relations between the two nations, spanning over 60 years, and marked the 33rd anniversary of Kuwait’s liberation during Operation Desert Storm.

The strategic dialogue between Kuwait and the United States reinforced the commitment of both countries’foreign ministers to further strengthen their longstanding historical and strategic partnership, according to Q8-Press.

The joint statement from the sixth round, held virtually from December 9 to 11, emphasized that the bilateral partnership is founded on shared interests in regional stability, security, and prosperity.

The United States reaffirmed its commitment to the security of the State of Kuwait, while the dialogue outlined avenues to enhance cooperation in defense, cyber–security, trade, investment, health challenges, climate change, travel facilitation, educational and cultural partnerships, human rights, women’s empowerment, and artificial intelligence.

The strategic dialogue underscored the enduring relations between the two nations, spanning over 60 years, and marked the 33rd anniversary of Kuwait’s liberation during Operation Desert Storm.

Kuwait and the United States also discussed shared international and regional priorities, including Kuwait’s presidency of the Supreme Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council and bilateral development initiatives through the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development and the United States Agency for International Development.

The two sides commended the technical discussions on joint development projects in Yemen and the East Jerusalem Hospital Network.

Independent and viable Palestinian state

Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to resolving the Palestinian issue through a two-state solution, advocating for the establishment of an independent and viable Palestinian state along the 1967 borders, with agreed territorial exchanges based on internationally recognized standards.

They called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of detainees and hostages, increased humanitarian aid to Gaza, and support for all international and regional efforts to achieve these objectives.

Kuwait commends U.S. peace efforts

The State of Kuwait expressed deep appreciation for U.S. efforts in facilitating the cessation of hostilities in Lebanon and expressed hope that these efforts would contribute to a ceasefire in Gaza and broader peace in the region.

The two nations emphasized the importance of Iraq’s commitment to Kuwait’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, urging adherence to international agreements and United Nations resolutions, particularly Security Council Resolution No. 833 on border demarcation. They called on Iraq to complete the demarcation of maritime borders beyond border point 162 in accordance with international law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (1982).

They urged the Iraqi government to ensure the continued enforcement of the 2012 Kuwait-Iraq Agreement on Maritime Navigation in Khor Abdullah.

Both countries also expressed support for Security Council Resolution No. 2732 (2024), mandating the UN Secretary-General to facilitate progress on outstanding issues, including the return of Kuwaiti and third-country nationals or their remains, as well as Kuwaiti property and national archives. They highlighted the vital role of the United Nations in implementing Security Council Resolution No. 1284 and ensuring sustained progress under Security Council supervision.

Regarding Iran, the two countries emphasized the importance of de-escalation in the region and urged Iran to cease the supply of weapons to non-state actors.

Kuwait, U.S. urge Iran to respect sovereignty

They called on Iran to adhere to the principles of good neighborliness, resolve disputes through dialogue and peaceful means, respect the sovereignty of states, and refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of regional countries.

They also urged Iran to fully cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency on its nuclear program and halt nuclear expansions that lack credible civilian justification.

The two sides expressed their appreciation for their bilateral defense partnership, including Kuwait’s hosting of U.S. forces, and commended the fifteenth round of the Kuwaiti-American Joint Military Committee, hosted by Kuwait from May 21–24, 2024. They expressed their commitment to continuing these meetings regularly to foster closer defense cooperation between the two countries.

The dialogue highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen cyber–security, combat terrorism, and promote human rights. The two nations also discussed mutual investments in renewable energy, health security, and climate change mitigation.