Gulf in the News – September 21, 2012

UAE calls to establish nuclear arms-free Middle East

Source: Khaleej Times (Read full story)

It was the first time that an IRRS Mission was held at such an early stage in a country embarking on a nuclear programme. This highlights the advancement of the UAE as a model for nuclear new-comers, the representative said.

Al Kaabi said the UAE has also joined the protocol to amend the Vienna convention on Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage as well as the Joint Protocol Relating to the Application of the Vienna Convention and the Paris Convention, further demonstrating the country’s responsible approach.

The UAE is keen on sharing its experience with other member states embarking on a nuclear power programme by providing feedback on its best practices, guiding principles, lessons learned and challenges.

Palestinian embassy to reopen in Kuwait – Amir approves envoy’s credentials

Source: Kuwait Times (Read full story)

Jarallah added that HH the Amir was personally interested in finalizing the inauguration of the Palestinian embassy as soon as possible. He also noted that since Palestine does not own an embassy premises, the Palestinian diplomatic mission could rent a building and hoist its flag on it. Further, besides working as assistant foreign minister for international economic affairs, the sources explained that the new ambassador worked as an assistant to Faisal Al- Husseini for Arab affairs and lectured at Al-Quds university. They added that he is expected to arrive next month.

The Palestinian embassy to Kuwait has been closed for 22 years since the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in 1990 when the Palestinian leadership did not condemn the invasion. However, the current Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas officially apologized to Kuwait in Dec 2004

Riyadh pledges aid of $17.9 billion

Source: Gulfnews (Read full story)

Saudi Arabia has so far disbursed about a fifth of the much-needed aid it promised to Arab countries since uprisings erupted in the region last year, according to the IMF, which cited data from Riyadh’s finance ministry.

Riyadh pledged a total of $17.9 billion (Dh65.7 billion) in loans, grants and other support between the start of 2011 and June 1 this year, to be disbursed over several years, potentially making it a key donor as Arab countries struggle to repair economic damage caused by the uprisings.

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