Kuwait's UN Representative: Country's re-election to Human Rights Council a diplomatic achievement and recognition of its foreign policy
Kuwait's representative confirms that the re-election is a diplomatic achievement reflecting international trust in the country's moderate approach.
Translated by Qiyas from كونا — Original source
New York, October 14 (KUNA) -- Kuwait’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Tariq Al-Banna, affirmed that Kuwait’s re-election to the membership of the Human Rights Council for the term (2027–2029) represents a diplomatic achievement and a renewal of international confidence in the country, reflecting appreciation for its foreign policy approach based on moderation, balance, dialogue, respect for international law, and steadfast adherence to the principles of the UN Charter.
This statement was made by Ambassador Al-Banna in an interview with the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Tuesday evening, following Kuwait’s re-election to the UN Human Rights Council, having secured 173 votes and achieving the second-highest vote tally among the elected countries.
Ambassador Al-Banna extended his highest congratulations and best wishes to His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may God protect and guard him; to His Highness the Crown Prince, Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, may God protect him; and to the Kuwaiti government and people on this diplomatic achievement, which underscores Kuwait’s prominent standing in the international community and the trust, respect, and esteem it enjoys.
He noted that this achievement was made possible by the grace and favor of God Almighty, followed by the high guidance and continuous support of the political leadership. He added that it enables Kuwait to build on its previous experience in the Council and continue its role in supporting multilateral work, enhancing international cooperation, and serving humanitarian causes.
He further stated that Kuwait views this international confidence as a responsibility and a trust before it is an achievement, particularly as its membership comes at a critical juncture when the international human rights system faces growing challenges amid escalating armed conflicts and humanitarian crises, accompanied by violations that undermine human dignity and fundamental rights.
Ambassador Al-Banna affirmed that Kuwait will work during its membership to fulfill the commitments it made during its candidacy and to leverage its experience in the Council’s work, contributing to enhanced international cooperation and tangible progress in protecting human rights and safeguarding human dignity.
He added that Kuwait will continue its approach of dialogue and constructive cooperation with all member states and relevant UN mechanisms, paying special attention to the rights of women, children, and persons with disabilities, and supporting development efforts and national capacity-building, alongside strengthening the protection of civilians in armed conflicts and ensuring that humanitarian aid reaches its rightful beneficiaries.
The Ambassador reiterated that the Palestinian issue will remain at the forefront of Kuwait’s concerns, based on its principled and steadfast position in defending the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, foremost among which is their right to self-determination, and in rejecting the violations they suffer. He also emphasized the necessity of respecting international law and international humanitarian law, and ensuring accountability for serious human rights violations.
In this context, he pointed out that the credibility of the Human Rights Council is measured by its ability to discharge its responsibilities objectively and fairly, free from politicization, selectivity, and double standards, ensuring that human rights violations are addressed according to fair and consistent standards applied to all without exception.
He added that the protection of human rights, the preservation of international peace and security, and the achievement of sustainable development are interrelated and integrated goals, considering that international cooperation, respect for state sovereignty, and fulfillment of international commitments are fundamental pillars for achieving them.
In this context, Ambassador Al-Banna clarified that Kuwait’s re-election was the result of comprehensive national and diplomatic efforts, in which the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Kuwait’s diplomatic missions played a key role through active engagement with member states, highlighting the country’s priorities and commitments, thereby contributing to the broad international support for its candidacy. On this occasion, he expressed his sincere gratitude and appreciation to all countries that placed their trust in Kuwait, as well as to the Asia-Pacific Group for supporting its candidacy. Ambassador Al-Banna also expressed his hope that Kuwait’s membership on the Human Rights Council for the period 2027–2029 would constitute a valuable and effective addition to the Council’s work, and that the wide international confidence would be translated into diligent efforts and tangible contributions that enhance the Council’s capacity to fulfill its mandate, reinforce the values of justice and human dignity, and safeguard the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all without discrimination. (End) A.S.T. / H.S.S.
