Pakistani Ambassador to "Al-Anbaa": Kuwait's security and stability are a priority... and we are ready to enhance cooperation with it in combating terrorism and security threats

Interview by: Osama Diab

The Pakistani Ambassador to Kuwait, Dr. Zafar Iqbal, revealed that the visit of General Asim Munir, National Security Advisor and Director General of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), to Kuwait was part of the continuous and regular high-level communication between Pakistan and Kuwait, aimed at exchanging views on bilateral relations and regional and international issues of mutual interest.

In an exclusive interview with Al-Anbaa, Iqbal emphasized that Kuwait’s security and stability are a top priority for Pakistan, and that ties between the two countries extend beyond security cooperation. He noted that Kuwait is a partner and friend to Pakistan, with close, evolving, and multifaceted relations, offering broad prospects for further support and enhancement to explore wider horizons.

He pointed out that Kuwait is a key player in the region and an important participant in consultations on regional issues, adding that Pakistan places great importance on strengthening security cooperation with Kuwait through official channels, in line with the priorities of both countries. He clarified that there is no way to avoid escalation in the region other than through diplomatic tools, dialogue, self-restraint, and prioritizing the public interest. To the details:

What is the primary objective of the visit by General Asim Munir, National Security Advisor and Director General of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) of Pakistan, to Kuwait at this specific time?

The visit of General Asim Munir, National Security Advisor and Director General of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) of Pakistan, to Kuwait is part of the continuous and regular high-level communication between Pakistan and Kuwait. It also provides an opportunity to exchange views on bilateral relations and regional and international issues of mutual interest.

Given the importance of Pakistan-Kuwait relations, such consultations represent an important opportunity to maintain close communication between the two countries and to continue enhancing their cooperation.

How do you assess the current level of security and intelligence cooperation between Pakistan and Kuwait?

Pakistan and Kuwait enjoy long-standing cooperation in several areas, including the security sector. There is regular institutional communication between the two sides, based on mutual trust and understanding. We attach special importance to continuing to enhance this cooperation in line with the requirements and priorities of both countries.

What were the key issues discussed during meetings with officials from the Kuwaiti side?

The discussions covered bilateral relations and regional developments of mutual interest. The two sides exchanged views on the importance of continuing consultation and close cooperation, particularly in support of peace, stability, and security in the region.

Do you expect this visit to yield new mechanisms or agreements to enhance intelligence and security cooperation between the two countries?

The primary objective of such visits is to enhance understanding and coordination between the two sides. Any additional institutional arrangements, if deemed necessary by both sides, will be developed through appropriate official channels.

How important is Kuwait to Pakistan’s security and diplomatic calculations in the region?

Kuwait is an important, longstanding friend and partner of Pakistan. Our relations extend far beyond the security sector, encompassing political, economic, and diplomatic ties, as well as people-to-people links. Kuwait also plays a significant role in dialogue on regional issues, and Pakistan values its close consultations with the Kuwaiti leadership.

How does Pakistan assess the current security situation in the Gulf and the broader Middle East region?

Pakistan closely monitors developments in the region and remains firmly committed to peace, stability, and security in the Gulf and the broader Middle East. We believe that dialogue, restraint, and diplomatic engagement are essential elements for addressing regional differences and avoiding further escalation.

What are the most prominent security challenges facing the Gulf region currently, in your view?

The highest priority for all countries in the region is to maintain peace and stability and to avoid any developments that could increase tensions. Pakistan believes that regional countries, through dialogue and cooperation, can play a significant role in maintaining a stable and peaceful environment.

How can Pakistan contribute to enhancing the security of Kuwait and other Gulf states?

Pakistan has long-standing and friendly relations with Gulf countries. We are committed to cooperating with our partners in areas of mutual interest and supporting their sovereignty, territorial integrity, and stability. Pakistan also believes that its contribution to regional stability can be best enhanced through constructive diplomacy, dialogue, and cooperation.

Amid current regional tensions, does Pakistan see a greater need for security coordination and intelligence information sharing at the regional level?

Close consultation and coordination among regional partners is always of paramount importance, especially during periods of heightened regional sensitivity. Pakistan remains committed to maintaining close communication channels with Kuwait and other regional partners and contributing constructively to efforts aimed at achieving peace and stability.

What role can intelligence cooperation play in preventing the escalation of regional conflicts?

It is natural for relevant institutions in countries to maintain cooperation and communication on issues of mutual interest. Such cooperation can contribute to enhancing understanding and coordination among parties.

In which areas of counter-terrorism cooperation can Pakistan and Kuwait enhance their collaboration?

Pakistan and Kuwait already cooperate in several areas of mutual interest. The two sides can continue to enhance institutional cooperation and exchange expertise where appropriate. Any such cooperation is conducted through existing channels between the relevant authorities in both countries.

How important is the exchange of intelligence information in confronting cross-border terrorism, organized crime, and emerging security threats?

Cooperation and communication between relevant institutions are key elements of international security cooperation. Pakistan attaches importance to working with its partners, including Kuwait, through established institutional channels.

Pakistan enjoys long-standing strategic relations with Gulf countries. How do you view the evolution of the security partnership between Pakistan and Kuwait?

Pakistan-Kuwait relations are characterized as long-standing, close, and multi-dimensional. Security cooperation is one aspect of this broader relationship. We see significant potential to continue enhancing cooperation in political, economic, defense, and security fields, as well as people-to-people relations.

How does Pakistan balance its relations with various regional powers while maintaining its strategic partnerships with Gulf countries?

Pakistan maintains friendly and constructive relations with various countries in the region. Our approach is based on respecting sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs, and working to support and enhance common interests, as well as the peaceful settlement of disputes. We seek to build constructive relations with all regional partners, believing that this contributes to regional stability.

What message would you like to convey to the Kuwaiti leadership and people regarding Pakistan’s commitment to Kuwait’s security and the depth of the historical friendship between the two countries?

Pakistan places great importance on its firm friendship with Kuwait. The two countries have stood by each other during difficult times. This relationship is based on mutual respect, trust, and close ties between the peoples. Pakistan remains committed to continuing to strengthen this relationship and working closely with Kuwait in support of peace, stability, and prosperity.