Kuwait – The State of Kuwait has officially ratified a comprehensive defense cooperation agreement with the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, following the issuance of a decree approving the agreement signed by the two governments in Kuwait City on June 11, 2023, according to the Kuwaiti Official Gazette published on Sunday. The new agreement aims to establish clear organizational and institutional frameworks for military and defense cooperation between the two sides, including the training of armed forces, in full compliance with the applicable laws and regulations of both countries and in line with their international obligations governing bilateral relations.
Areas of military and technological cooperation
The agreement covers a wide range of vital military sectors, primarily including the exchange of expertise and advanced training and qualification programs between military academies and branches. It also aims to enhance field and logistical coordination and joint capabilities, facilitate logistical support and the exchange of personnel, technical experts, and specialists in various military disciplines, and open channels for cooperation in advanced military technology, scientific research, and the exchange of military information and intelligence, in addition to any other areas to be agreed upon in the future by both parties.
Implementation mechanisms, confidentiality, and amicable solutions
To ensure the effective implementation of the agreement’s provisions, the document stipulates the preparation of annual action plans for joint activities through detailed programs and protocols, as well as enhanced communication through the exchange of field and official visits at various military and political levels. The agreement also includes the formation of a joint military committee tasked with coordinating and monitoring the implementation of military cooperation between the two countries. This committee is chaired by high-ranking military officials appointed by the two countries’ defense ministers and is to hold an annual meeting to evaluate performance and future plans.
Regarding information protection, the agreement imposes strict obligations on both parties to take all necessary security measures to protect exchanged confidential documents and information. It prohibits the transfer of such information to any third party without the prior written consent of the information source, and this obligation to protect it remains in effect even after the agreement’s termination. Concerning potential disputes, the agreement affirms that its provisions do not affect either country’s obligations under other international treaties and agreements. The clauses clearly stipulate that any dispute arising from the interpretation or application of the agreement will be settled amicably and directly between the two countries, precluding the referral of any dispute to any third party or to local or international courts.
