Chinese Ambassador: Developing Defense and Security Partnership with Kuwait

Yang Xin, the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Kuwait, affirmed that his country is closely following with deep concern the rapid security developments in the Gulf region, emphasizing the necessity of respecting the sovereignty of all countries, including Kuwait, and protecting civilians and civilian infrastructure. This statement came as Kuwait and China renewed their commitment to developing the defense and military partnership between the two nations.

Speaking 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, the ambassador stated that Beijing is deeply concerned about the renewed escalation in the region. He reiterated China’s firm stance calling for respect for the sovereignty and security of states, and for not targeting civilians or non-military facilities. He clarified that China is doing “its utmost” to end hostilities as soon as possible, noting that part of the diplomatic efforts are being conducted behind the scenes, and expressing hope that these initiatives will yield results in restoring security and stability to the region.

Regarding military cooperation with Kuwait, Yang Xin confirmed that bilateral relations are based on a comprehensive strategic partnership encompassing various fields, including security and military cooperation. He pointed out that this cooperation has been ongoing for years and is not linked to recent regional developments. He added that practical outcomes of this cooperation will be showcased during current events, while the Chinese Military Attaché will provide further details on the dimensions of military collaboration between the two countries.

When asked about supplying Kuwait with weapons or military equipment, he clarified that negotiations and defense cooperation between the two sides have been ongoing for a long time, without disclosing additional details. The Chinese ambassador firmly rejected his country’s stance against targeting infrastructure and civilian facilities, including water and electricity facilities and oil tankers, considering such actions a violation of the UN Charter and international law. He stressed that China will continue to work with peace-loving nations to bring all parties back to the negotiating table.

For his part, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Defense Sheikh Dr. Abdullah Meshal Al-Sabah affirmed Kuwait’s commitment to strengthening defense and military relations with the People’s Republic of China. He praised the strategic partnership uniting the two countries and expressed hope for its development in a manner that contributes to supporting security, stability, and prosperity in the region. He stated that Kuwait-China relations are based on mutual respect, constructive dialogue, and an established strategic partnership, noting that Kuwait is keen to expand the horizons of defense cooperation with countries across various military fields.

Al-Sabah revealed that a Kuwaiti military delegation visited the People’s Republic of China last week to discuss ways to enhance military cooperation between the two countries. He confirmed that cooperation includes military industries, particularly the production of light and medium ammunition in Kuwait. He added that any new joint military deals or exercises will be announced in due course.

In turn, Liu Zongchen, the Military Attaché at the Chinese Embassy in Kuwait, affirmed his country’s commitment to enhancing military cooperation with Kuwait and joint efforts between the two armies to serve common interests and maintain regional security and stability. He explained that the Chinese People’s Liberation Army continues its military modernization journey under the leadership of President Xi Jinping. He noted that China adheres to a peaceful defense policy and has contributed more than 50,000 personnel to UN peacekeeping operations since 1990, becoming the largest troop contributor among permanent members of the Security Council.

He added that military relations between Kuwait and China are experiencing continuous growth, supported by the leaderships of both countries, and emphasized that the Gulf region is at a critical juncture between war and peace, which necessitates strengthening security and military cooperation. He expressed his country’s aspiration to implement the agreements reached by the leaders of both nations and to expand the areas of cooperation in a manner that enhances security and stability in the region.