Kuwait Cabinet Discusses Outcomes of GCC-EU Summit and Prepares for Upcoming GCC Summit

KUWAIT CITY: The Kuwait Cabinet convened for its regular weekly session on Tuesday, presided over by His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. The meeting focused on reviewing the outcomes of the GCC-EU Summit held in Brussels and preparing for the forthcoming GCC Summit in Kuwait. According to Kuwait News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs Sheridah Al-Mousherji reported that the ministers praised the address delivered by Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Sabah at the GCC-EU Summit. The summit was described as a significant opportunity to enhance bilateral relations and foster comprehensive strategic partnerships between the GCC and the European Union. His Highness emphasized Kuwait's commitment to advancing negotiations for a free trade agreement between the two regions and expressed the country's aspirations for full coordination with European partners as Kuwait assumes the GCC chairmanship in 2024. The Prime Minister also reiterated Kuwait's dedi cation to supporting Iraq in regaining its regional standing. He urged Iraq to address outstanding issues with Kuwait, including the marine border demarcation beyond Point 162, in accordance with international conventions and law. Furthermore, he called on Iraq to adhere to bilateral agreements concerning the Khor Abdullah maritime waterway, highlighting their importance in marine conservation, navigation regulation, and combating terrorism and illegal trade. During the summit, Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Sabah called for an immediate halt to Israeli air strikes on Gaza, underscoring Kuwait's unwavering support for the Palestinian cause and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state along the June 4, 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. He commended European countries that have recognized the State of Palestine and urged others to do the same. The Cabinet was also updated on meetings held by the Amir's Representative with leaders from Spain, Greece, and the European Council on the summi t's sidelines. Preparations for the 45th GCC Summit, set to take place in Kuwait on December 1, were discussed, with ministers emphasizing the event's importance in strengthening historic relations among GCC member countries and promoting regional cooperation and development.