Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and his Kuwaiti counterpart Salem Abdullah Al-Jaber Al-Sabah will hold discussions in Moscow regarding the pursuit of a peaceful resolution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, along with exploring opportunities for bilateral cooperation across various domains. While Moscow and Kuwait engage in regular diplomatic exchanges on regional and multilateral matters, the recent escalation involving the Gaza Strip and Israel, coupled with the heightened risks of conflict escalation, necessitate additional meetings.
Arab-Israeli conflict
On October 7, the Palestinian-Israeli conflict once again escalated, resulting in significant casualties on both sides. However, a cessation of hostilities has not yet been achieved.
The Russian government condemned the attack by Hamas on Israel, while also expressing concern about the use of force in the Gaza Strip and the dire humanitarian situation resulting from the blockade of the enclave. Moscow views the current situation as a consequence of Washington's attempts to monopolize the Middle East peace process. Foreign Minister Lavrov has previously called for an immediate ceasefire and the resumption of negotiations to establish an independent Palestinian state. He is expected to brief his Kuwaiti counterpart on the steps taken by Russia, particularly in the UN Security Council, to expedite a resolution to the crisis.
Arab nations have welcomed Russia's stance and its efforts in this regard. The foreign ministers of Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, Kuwait, Morocco, UAE, Oman, and Saudi Arabia have all called on the UN Security Council to compel the conflicting parties in the Middle East to immediately halt hostilities.
Regional security
Moscow and Kuwait are also engaged in discussions on establishing lasting security in the Persian Gulf region, with consultations taking place between Russia and the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Persian Gulf.
Of particular concern is the situation regarding the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) of the Iranian nuclear program. Russia has repeatedly noted the counterproductive actions of Western negotiators in the potential revival of the agreement.
Additionally, topics such as Syria, Libya, and the crisis in Yemen are included on the agenda for discussions.
Bilateral dialogue
The ministers will also explore opportunities for future engagements at different levels, as well as the potential for enhancing trade, economic, and investment cooperation between their respective nations.
Furthermore, bilateral collaboration in the energy sector and discussions on global hydrocarbon market pricing are significant topics on the agenda.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Russian Foreign Ministry
Based on materials from TASS