Kuwait stresses importance of enhancing international cooperation to combat illicit trade in conventional arms
Jara Al-Anzi condemns arms trafficking and calls for the implementation of UN principles.
Translated by Qiyas from الوسط — Original source
Kuwait began its address on Friday evening, emphasizing that international cooperation is not permitted to allow traditional arms that prevent the fulfillment of its legitimate defensive needs, in accordance with the principles of the UN Charter. This was stated in Kuwait’s speech, delivered by the diplomat Jirah Al-Anzi before the First Committee of the General Assembly on disarmament, during the discussion on conventional arms.
Al-Anzi highlighted the importance of the balanced and non-selective implementation of the Arms Trade Treaty, including the responsibility of exporting and importing states, without imposing unjustified restrictions on their legitimate rights. He warned that the proliferation of unregulated arms and ammunition to non-state actors, as well as to armed groups outside state control, undermines national projects, weakens state efforts, and hinders peacebuilding and development.
Kuwait reaffirmed its support for the full and effective implementation of the Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat, and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects. It also stressed the importance of strengthening national mechanisms in specific areas, such as tracking and securing existing stockpiles, and preventing unauthorized transfers to avoid leakage to unknown destinations or to unauthorized holders.
Al-Anzi noted Kuwait’s attention to the global framework on conventional ammunition, emphasizing that while all states share common challenges, differences arise from poor ammunition management, diversion of supplies, and the use of unapproved explosives. Kuwait expressed pride at its election as a Vice-President of the Preparatory Committee and recommended its nomination to assume one of the Vice-Presidency roles at the upcoming session in 2027, enabling it to contribute to international cooperation and national capacity-building.
In this regard, Al-Anzi stated that the prominent developments in our region underscore that the presence of certain actors cannot be ignored, as their actions threaten the security and stability of states. He pointed to emerging threats that targeted Kuwait, the Cooperation Council for Arab States of the Gulf, and Jordan, including attacks on defensive capabilities, missiles, and critical infrastructure in Iraq, as well as strikes on civilian buildings and vital infrastructure.
Kuwait reiterated its condemnation of these structures, calling for full implementation of Security Council Resolution 2817 (2026), and an end to digital encryption and non-traditional methods, while confronting the acquisition of arms and military capabilities that enable the launch of international military weapons and their security. He noted that these actors disregard international law globally, including among individuals, and do not fully respect the use of conventional arms in conflicts involving minorities.
In conclusion, Kuwait reaffirmed its continued international support to prevent the flow of arms to illicit actors, following their use against states’ ability to protect themselves and their sovereignty, thereby contributing to the consolidation of peace and stability.
