Deputy Minister of Defense: Enhancing Military Cooperation with China

Deputy Minister of Defense Sheikh Dr. Abdullah Al-Meshal affirmed Kuwait’s commitment to strengthening its defense and military relations with the People’s Republic of China, praising the strategic partnership between the two countries and expressing the desire to develop it in a manner that supports security, stability, and prosperity in the region. This statement was made to journalists on the sidelines of the Chinese Embassy’s celebration of the 99th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, attended by Chinese Ambassador to Kuwait Yang Xin and a number of senior officials, diplomats, and military officers.

Al-Meshal extended his sincere congratulations to the Chinese ambassador, the military attaché, embassy staff, and the friendly Chinese government and people. He noted that the celebration reflects the depth of bilateral relations, which are built on a solid foundation of friendship, mutual respect, and strategic partnership. He emphasized that Kuwait-China relations, particularly in the fields of defense and security, are witnessing continuous development, and affirmed that Kuwait looks forward to enhancing this partnership in the coming phase to serve mutual interests and contribute to consolidating regional security and stability.

In response to a question about the impact of regional developments on military cooperation between the two countries, he clarified that Kuwait pursues a consistent policy of building bridges of defense cooperation with friendly nations. He pointed out that cooperation with China covers several military fields, foremost among them the military industry, including the production of light and medium ammunition currently located in Kuwait. He revealed that a Kuwaiti military delegation visited China last week to discuss prospects for enhancing military cooperation between the two countries, confirming that any new agreements, training exercises, or projects would be announced at the appropriate time.

For his part, Chinese Ambassador to Kuwait Yang Xin stated that his country closely follows the rapid security developments in the Gulf region, expressing concern over the resumption of escalation and stressing the necessity of respecting the sovereignty of all states and protecting civilians and civilian infrastructure. In a statement to journalists, Yang said China is deeply concerned about what he described as violations of the memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran. He affirmed Beijing’s firm stance calling for respect for the sovereignty and security of all countries, including Kuwait, and for refraining from targeting civilians or non-military facilities. He noted that his country is doing its utmost to end hostilities as soon as possible, explaining that some diplomatic moves are being conducted behind the scenes, and expressing hope that these efforts would soon bear fruit, allowing the region to regain its security and stability.

Regarding military relations with Kuwait, he clarified that security and defense cooperation between the two countries is part of the strategic partnership established years ago and is not linked to recent developments, pointing out that tangible results of this cooperation would be showcased during the current events. In response to a question about supplying Kuwait with weapons or military equipment, he confirmed that negotiations and cooperation in this field have been ongoing for a long time, even before the outbreak of the current crisis, without providing further details.

He strongly emphasized his country’s firm rejection of targeting infrastructure and civilian facilities, including water and electricity facilities and oil tankers, asserting that such attacks constitute a violation of the UN Charter and international law. He affirmed that China, in cooperation with peace-loving countries, would continue its efforts to bring all parties back to the negotiating table.

For his part, Chinese Military Attaché Liu Zongchen affirmed his country’s commitment to enhancing military cooperation with Kuwait and joint efforts between the two armies to protect the mutual interests of both nations and contribute to consolidating regional security and stability. He noted that the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, continues to implement military modernization plans and enhance its capabilities to rank among the world’s leading armed forces, reaffirming China’s commitment to a national defense policy of a peaceful nature.