Jasim Mohamed Al-Badi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), called on the Republic of Iraq to withdraw the coordinates and map submitted to the United Nations, which contain claims regarding Iraq's maritime areas. These coordinates and map infringe upon the sovereignty of the State of Kuwait over its maritime zones and marine elevations, including Failaka Island and Kubba Bay. The Secretary-General emphasized the importance of adhering to the rules and principles of international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and in line with the understandings, agreements, and bilateral memoranda of understanding between the two countries when dealing with such issues. He also reaffirmed the GCC's positions and previous decisions, as stated in the final communiqué of the 46th Supreme Council, regarding Iraq's respect for the sovereignty of the State of Kuwait and its territorial integrity, and its rejection of any infringement on Kuwait's sovereignty over all its territories, islands, and maritime zones. He stressed the commitment to bilateral and international agreements and all relevant United Nations resolutions. The Secretary-General noted that the GCC and the Republic of Iraq are bound by strong historical relations and close ties based on mutual respect and good neighborliness, adding that such claims do not contribute to enhancing the path of cooperation and bilateral relations between the two parties. He expressed his hope that the Republic of Iraq would promptly review and withdraw the coordinates and map submitted to the United Nations, which would enhance mutual trust, support the stability of relations, and consolidate commitment to the relevant legal and international principles.
