Kuwait marked a major milestone as it received a new batch of its stolen archives from Iraq. The return of stolen Kuwaiti archives showed both nations’ growing commitment to rebuilding trust and cooperation after decades of tension.
The handover took place at Kuwait’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It included 400 boxes filled with books and microfilms that belonged to the Ministry of Information. This effort followed UN Security Council Resolution 2792, which calls for collaboration between Kuwait and Iraq to recover stolen property and archives.
Assistant Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Al-Jarallah praised the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) for overseeing the process. He said that the return of stolen Kuwaiti archives is not just about recovering documents but also about restoring history and cultural identity.
The resolution, adopted in September, also requires appointing a high-level representative. This person will continue the search for missing Kuwaiti and third-country nationals. Al-Jarallah noted that this cooperation strengthens both countries’ ties and encourages more progress.
UNAMI’s chief, Mohammad Al-Hassan, described the handover as a “historic day” for Kuwait. He said it marks the start of a new era of partnership. Al-Hassan added that such actions build mutual respect and trust between neighbors who once faced deep division.
Iraq’s Foreign Ministry Undersecretary Shorsh Saeed confirmed Baghdad’s full commitment to the resolution. He said Iraq would continue returning all remaining Kuwaiti properties until the process is complete. His remarks reflected a genuine effort to bring closure to long-standing disputes.
The event also carried great symbolic value. For Kuwait, the return of stolen Kuwaiti archives means more than reclaiming lost materials. It represents reconciliation, respect, and the recovery of national pride. Each returned shipment closes an old wound and strengthens regional unity.
With each act of cooperation, both nations move closer to lasting peace and stability. This progress sends a clear message that dialogue and goodwill can overcome even the hardest past.
