Kuwait stresses importance of implementing the Seville Commitment and enhancing development financing for developing countries
New York, October 12 (KUNA) -- Kuwait reaffirmed on Monday the importance of implementing the (Istanbul Commitments), fulfilling official development assistance obligations, enhancing concessional financing, and addressing debt burdens, thereby enabling developing countries to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and protect essential services, while respecting national ownership and development priorities. This was stated in Kuwait’s statement delivered by Diplomatic Attaché Abdullah Boushkhar to the Second Committee (Economic and Financial) of the UN General Assembly during the discussion of Agenda Item 17 on sustainable development.
Boushkhar, on behalf of Kuwait, called for new, additional, predictable, and accessible climate finance to support adaptation and build resilience, in line with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. He emphasized the importance of technology transfer, capacity building, and enhanced South-South cooperation to exchange expertise in water management and sustainable agriculture.
He noted that the 2026 SDG Progress Report showed that only 36 percent of measurable targets are on track or making moderate progress, urging the integration of SDGs into national plans and budgets and directing investments to enhance water and food security, energy security, and statistical capacities to measure the impact of development on people’s lives.
He pointed out that, under (Kuwait Vision 2035), Kuwait prioritizes environmental protection, resource efficiency, and sustainable consumption and production patterns, citing its cooperation with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to prepare its implementation plan for the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, supporting more efficient and climate-friendly cooling solutions. He stressed the importance of ensuring reliable and affordable energy for all and enhancing private sector participation in achieving the SDGs.
Addressing development challenges, Boushkhar reiterated Kuwait’s strongest condemnation of Iranian attacks targeting its territory, calling for the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2817 and demanding that Iran immediately cease actions and threats that obstruct legitimate transit or freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz or threaten maritime security in the Bab al-Mandab. He warned that disruptions to navigation raise the cost of essential goods and undermine efforts to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, urging Iran to ensure freedom and safety of navigation in accordance with international law and the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea to protect development gains.
Boushkhar concluded by reaffirming Kuwait’s commitment to international cooperation in implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and ensuring that no one is left behind. (End) A.S.T. / M.A.H.A.
