Iraq Submits Maritime Coordinates to UN, Kuwait Objects to Sovereignty Violation
Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein made statements regarding maritime coordinates submitted to the United Nations, prompting Kuwaiti objections. This came after Baghdad deposited maps including disputed maritime areas, which Kuwait considered a violation of its sovereignty.
Official Iraqi Statements
Foreign Minister’s Comments
Fuad Hussein clarified that Iraq has deposited a set of maps and maritime coordinates with the United Nations. These documents officially included what he described as “the submerged divided area adjacent to the Saudi-Kuwaiti divided zone.”
Content of Submitted Documents
Official statements indicated that the submitted documents aim to clarify Iraq’s position regarding maritime borders. The coordinates included precise identification of areas of interest in the Arabian Gulf.
Kuwaiti Position on the Maps
Explicit Official Objection
The Kuwaiti government considered this step as “an infringement on its sovereignty over its maritime areas.” Kuwait affirmed that the submerged elevations mentioned fall within its national sovereignty.
Disputed Maritime Areas
Kuwaiti objections focused specifically on areas referenced in the Iraqi documents. The Kuwaiti side insisted that these maritime spaces constitute an integral part of its territorial waters.
Background of the Border Dispute
History of Bilateral Disputes
Border disputes between Iraq and Kuwait extend over many decades. Previous disputes included multiple land and maritime areas, with previous international agreements to settle some of them.
Importance of the Disputed Area
The maritime areas mentioned hold significant strategic and economic importance. These waters are considered vital navigation routes and contain potential marine resources.
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