Iraq and Kuwait establish joint working group to resolve long-standing disputes

Iraq and Kuwait have agreed to establish a joint working group to address long-standing unresolved issues between the two nations. The agreement was reached in New York during the 81st United Nations General Assembly following a meeting between Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Falih ez-Zeydi and Kuwaiti Crown Prince Sabah Halid el-Hamad es-Sabah.

The working group is tasked with reviewing pending matters and developing a roadmap for resolution. It is expected to present its recommendations to the leadership of both countries within 30 days. To ensure continuous progress, the group will hold meetings alternately in Baghdad and Kuwait City.

While the specific topics for the group's immediate focus were not disclosed, historical tensions between the two nations include disputes over shared oil fields, land and maritime borders, and the status of prisoners and missing persons from the Gulf War. Although diplomatic relations were restored in 2003 following the fall of the Saddam Hussein regime, these core issues remain outstanding.