— The European Parliament?’s delegation for relations with the Arab Peninsula (DARP) has praised the human rights record as well as freedom of expression in Kuwait following its recent visit to the Gulf country.
“During the official visit, discussions also covered the state of human rights in the region, of which Kuwait is among the best; specifically, the treatment of stateless residents known as Bedoons as well as social rights for foreign workers and freedom of expression,” said DARP in a statement released Tuesday evening in Brussels.
DARP travelled to Kuwait on 3-4 November in order to hold the 10th Interparliamentary meeting EU-Kuwait.
The delegation was composed of 5 Members of DARP, led by Sven Simon and included Ismail Ertug, Jose Ramon Bauza Diaz, Diana Riba Giner and Ryszard Czarnecki.
This was the first European Parliamentary delegation to the country since the imposition of travel restrictions, which emerged because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
During these visits, the lawmakers discussed bilateral relations, issues of mutual interest and economic relations. They also talked about the recent elections in Iraq, the ongoing conflict in Yemen and the GCC?’s relationship with Iran.
Members voiced their appreciation for the key role traditionally played by the State of Kuwait in defusing tensions and contributing to finding lasting solutions to regional disputes and conflicts.
Meetings with Mr Marzouq al-Ghanim, Speaker of the National Assembly of Kuwait and the foreign affairs committee of the National Assembly, were held in a very friendly atmosphere and paved the way to deeper parliamentary cooperation between the European Union and Kuwait.
Kuwait Speaker expressed his regret that a summit between European Parliament and the GCC Speakers could not be arranged this year but hoped that it will take place in 2022.
The socio-economic situation in the country was also discussed in the context of the post-pandemic recovery, as well as environmental challenges and economic reforms. Members agreed that economic cooperation and more trading arrangements would be beneficial for both sides.
The issue of visa waiver for Kuwait citizens was debated at length. Members showed understanding and committed to pressure the European Commission in order to secure a rapid decision in favour of Kuwait, once basic conditions are met, it added.
Source: Kuwait News Agency