Identifier | Created | Classification | Origin |
---|---|---|---|
03KUWAIT5182 | 2003-11-12 13:31:00 | CONFIDENTIAL | Embassy Kuwait |
This record is a partial extract of the original cable. The full text of the original cable is not available. |
C O N F I D E N T I A L KUWAIT 005182 |
1. (C) In a courtesy call on November 10 in preparation for the Ambassador's departure for temporary duty in Baghdad, Kuwait Prime Minister Sabah Al-Ahmed confirmed that Kuwait is committed to Iraq reconstruction. He said that unlike other countries, all of Kuwait's remaining $500 million commitment would be in the form of grants: $100 million from the Fund for Iraq and $400 million from the Kuwait Fund. The GOK had decided, Sabah said, to concentrate on education and health care in Iraq. "We will build schools and hospitals and will spend our own money to do it," explaining that Kuwait wanted to leave lasting reminders of its generosity to influence future generations of Iraquis to have a positive image of the country. He also said that Kuwait was open to discussion with the IGC what other priorities should be considered. Everything is on the table "except arms." We won't be giving any weapons to anybody in Iraq," he confirmed. 2. (C) Sabah also wished the Ambassador well in his new assignment. While his departure imposed personal sacrifice "we are all counting on you and you can count on us to work with you for the mutual benefit of all our countries." 3. (U) Baghdad minimize considered. URBANCIC |