KUWAIT CITY, July 29: Defense Ministry Undersecretary Sheikh Dr. Abdullah Mishal Al-Sabah affirmed that his participation in the celebration of the 98th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army of China is a manifestation of the strength of the relationship between the State of Kuwait and the friendly People’s Republic of China; indicating this relationship is particularly evident in the military field, and more generally in various other fields.

In a press statement on the sidelines of the reception organized by the Chinese Embassy on the occasion of the 98th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, Sheikh Dr. Abdullah Mishal Al-Sabah disclosed “we, in the Ministry of Defense, have several projects with the friendly People’s Republic of China -- the most important of which is the establishment of a medium and light ammunition factory that will open in the near future.

At the State level, there are major strategic projects, including some projects related to Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port, as well as huge housing projects.” Regarding the exchange of military training between the two countries, he explained that training projects between Kuwait and China are ongoing, and that there is an expansion in this field every year. Asked about the consultations to strengthen defense cooperation with countries in the Asian continent and the signing of new agreements, he said “the Kuwaiti side focuses on relations with sisterly, Gulf and Arab countries. The political and military leaderships are also aware of the development of these relations with friendly countries in the East and West.”

On the development or modernization of the defense system or defense industries, he stressed that “Kuwaiti-Chinese relations are considered one of the basic pillars upon which the Kuwaiti Army relies in terms of defense agreements at the regional level.” About the defense agreements since 1991 and the discussion of renewing these agreements, he pointed out that “relations between the State of Kuwait and major powers worldwide are based on these main axes: defense agreements, memoranda of understanding and arms contracts.”

On the other hand, Defense Attaché at the Chinese Embassy in Kuwait Brigadier General Liu Zongchen asserted that relations between the Kuwaiti and Chinese militaries are witnessing positive development in various fields; most notably military training, defense industry cooperation and mutual exchange. He stressed that this cooperation is an important pillar in the growing bilateral relations between the two countries, under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state.

In his speech at the ceremony -- which was attended by Commander of the Land Forces Artillery Brigadier General Faisal Al-Ajeel and a number of heads and members of the diplomatic corps and military attaché; Brigadier General Liu Zongchen divulged his aspiration to enhance military cooperation with Kuwait during his tenure. He said “I look forward to working with my Kuwaiti counterparts to implement the agreement reached by the two countries’ leaders and strengthen the defense partnership to serve common interests and maintain regional security and stability.”

He pointed out that Kuwait was the first Gulf country to establish diplomatic relations with China; indicating that relations between the two countries have entered their best phase, driven by deep political understanding and practical cooperation in various fields. He added “the People’s Liberation Army, established 98 years ago under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, has a history of victories in liberating the people and defending State sovereignty and development.

The Army today is accelerating its development to become a world-class force and continues to play its role as a pillar of Chinese renaissance. The Chinese Army is committed to the principles of the United Nations Charter and opposes policies of hegemony and force.” He highlighted the contributions of the Chinese Army to peacekeeping and development around the world. “Since 1990, it has participated in 25 UN peacekeeping operations and sent more than 50,000 personnel to more than 20 countries and regions.

Since 2008, the Chinese Navy has carried out escort missions in the Gulf of Aden and the waters off the coast of Somalia; providing protection to more than 1,600 batches of Chinese and foreign vessels, and contributing to the rescue of about 100 vessels.” He also reviewed the humanitarian role of the Chinese Army, citing visits of the hospital ship ‘Peace Ark’ to 49 countries and regions to provide medical assistance and relief.

He affirmed that his country will continue its role in building an international community of peace, development and mutual cooperation. Chinese Chargé d’Affaires to Kuwait Liu Xiang stated that his country remains committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation with Kuwait and working together to consolidate peace and development in the region and the world. He said China is always ready to build a shared future for humanity, based on multilateralism and respect for the international system led by the United Nations. He added “I am certain that Brigadier General Liu will make sincere efforts to strengthen and develop relations between our countries and militaries, achieving further progress and common prosperity.” He touched on the historical dimension of the occasion, noting that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. He recalled the magnitude of the sacrifices made by the Chinese people in that war, which contributed significantly to the global victory over fascism.

He quoted Chinese President Xi Jinping as saying that “war is like a mirror; contemplating it helps us appreciate the value of peace. He added “China and Kuwait experienced the tragedies of war, and it is important to commemorate the heroes who sacrificed their lives and build a brighter future for our peoples.” He lauded Kuwait’s supportive stance toward China’s global initiatives.

“We commend the explicit support expressed by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- Sabah for the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and World Civilization Initiative launched by the Chinese President. We express our deep appreciation for this noble stance.” He also affirmed his country’s aspiration for further cooperation with Kuwait and other friendly countries, as part of its efforts to achieve peaceful development, protect true pluralism, and promote peace and stability in the world.

By Fares Ghaleb
Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff