Iraq's Foreign Minister Hussein visits Kuwait to discuss border, frozen funds

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein traveled to Kuwait on Tuesday for his first official visit to a Gulf state since the new government was formed, a government source said. Talks focused on freezing and recovering public funds that individuals accused of embezzlement are alleged to have deposited in Kuwaiti banks, as well as the mechanism for transferring those amounts back to Iraq. The two sides also discussed strengthening coordination between their audit bodies to identify shell companies and refer them to the judiciary, according to the source. Economic and investment agreements, and Kuwaiti gas supplies to support Iraq's electricity production, were also on the agenda. Kuwait expressed willingness to reach a settlement on the demarcation of the maritime border, while security in the shared border area was also raised. Iraq said it is seeking balanced solutions acceptable to both sides. Kuwait indicated it is ready to supply Iraq with energy under clear agreements to help address the electricity crisis. At the start of the visit, Kuwaiti authorities approved the release of Iraqi fishermen who had been detained by coast guard forces last week. The fishermen are expected to return home accompanied by the governor of Basra.