KUWAIT/ BRUSSELS: Kuwait on Tuesday reaffirmed its stance toward the Ukrainian crisis, asserting in this respect the principle of safeguarding states' sovereignty. The ministry of foreign affairs said in a statement the Kuwaiti stand was manifested by Foreign Minister Sheikh Salem Al-Abdullah Al-Jaber Al-Sabah during a reception of Ukrainian Ambassador Oleksandr Balanutsa to discuss latest developments concerning the Ukrainian crisis.

Sheikh Salem, during the meeting with the envoy, affirmed Kuwait's stance toward this crisis that calls for adherence to principles of international law, the United Nations Charter and states' sovereignty, independence and territorial sanctity with internationally recognized borders. He emphasized the necessity of supporting international efforts aimed at ceasing fire, lowering escalation and finding a peaceful solution to the crisis in line with the principle of resolving disputes and strife with peaceful means through dialogue and in line with the international law and the UN charter.

The ambassador conveyed greetings from the Ukrainian president and people to Kuwait's leadership, government and people, praising its support for the Ukrainian nation, particularly at the humanitarian level. He also lauded Kuwait's support for international efforts designed to end humanitarian suffering in Ukraine and its goodwill efforts for solidifying international peace and security.

Meanwhile, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg expressed NATO's appreciation for Kuwait's role and efforts in maintaining security and stability in the region, and his gratitude for all aspects of the support provided by Kuwait to NATO. Stoltenberg made the remark during a ceremony held on Monday, where Kuwaiti Ambassador Nawaf Al-Enezi presented his credentials as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the State of Kuwait to NATO.

The NATO chief recalled the efforts of Kuwait in hosting and operating the NATO regional center for the countries of the Istanbul Cooperation Initiative, Kuwait's mission to NATO said in a press statement to KUNA. Enezi conveyed the greetings of the political leadership in Kuwait and the greetings of Foreign Minister Sheikh Salem to Stoltenberg.

Enezi also expressed his aspiration to work with NATO to enhance bilateral relations at various levels to serve the interests of both sides. During the credential presentation ceremony, Enezi was accompanied by Maj Gen Dakheel Bani Al-Mutairi, Defense Attache in Brussels, and First Secretary Imad Abdullah Al-Kandari. - KUNA