GCC Chief urges Iraq to withdraw UN-filed maritime coordinates

RIYADH, Feb 23 (KUNA) -- Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council Jassim Al-Budaiwi called on the Republic of Iraq to withdraw the list of geographical coordinates and the map deposited with the UN, which includes claims regarding Iraqi maritime areas.
In a press statement on Monday, Al-Budaiwi said the submitted coordinates and map contain infringements on Kuwait's sovereignty over its maritime zones and water elevations, including Fasht Al-Qaid and Fasht Al-Aij.
He underscored the importance of adhering to the rules and principles of international law and the provisions of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, in line with the understandings, agreements and bilateral memoranda of understanding concluded between the two countries when addressing such issues.
Al-Budaiwi reaffirmed the positions contained in the final communique issued by the Supreme Council of Their Majesties and Highnesses, leaders of GCC states, at its 46th session, stressing its firm stance and previous decisions regarding Iraq's respect for Kuwait's sovereignty and territorial integrity. He reiterated the council's categorical rejection of any infringement on Kuwait's sovereignty over all its territories, islands, elevations and full maritime areas, as well as the need to abide by bilateral and international commitments and all relevant UN resolutions.
He noted that the GCC and Iraq share longstanding historical relations and close ties based on mutual respect and good neighborliness, adding that such claims do not strengthen cooperation or bilateral relations.
Al-Budaiwi expressed hope that Iraq would review and withdraw the deposited coordinates and map in a way that enhances confidence, supports stability in relations and reinforces commitment to relevant legal and international principles. (end) ash.aa