KUWAIT: Kuwaiti researcher at the Environment Public Authority (EPA), Omar Al-Shaheen, has observed a four-year-old female Greater Flamingo at the Jahra Nature Reserve, highlighting the area’s role as a key stopover for migratory birds. Al-Shaheen told KUNA on Thursday that during routine monitoring, he noticed leg bands on the bird and contacted the organization responsible for flamingo and bird banding in France and the Mediterranean.

The bands were confirmed to originate from Camargue in southern France, where the flamingo was banded in August 2021. He noted that the species is regularly sighted across Kuwait’s mudflats, including Kuwait Bay, Shuwaikh coast, Sulaibikhat Beach, and the Jahra Nature Reserve. “Spotting it in the reserve underscores the importance of Kuwait’s location as a major transit route for many European migratory birds,” Al-Shaheen said.

Describing the flamingo, he said it is pink, about 130 cm in length, with a wingspan of approximately 155 cm. Its diet consists mainly of small algae and microscopic organisms, which give its feathers their characteristic pink hue due to carotenoids. Al-Shaheen added that Greater Flamingos are highly social birds, often gathering in flocks of thousands, which provides protection against predators and enhances foraging efficiency. — KUNA

KUWAIT: Director General of the General Administration of Customs Yousef Al-Nuwaif, accompanied by his Deputy for Customs Investigation Saleh Al-Omar, conducted an inspection tour of Kuwait Airport Terminal 4 (T4) on Thursday, following directives from First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef Al-Sabah.

The visit is part of GAC’s ongoing efforts to monitor operations at customs ports, assess the needs of its personnel, and address any operational challenges to enhance trade facilitation while protecting society from smuggling attempts, the administration said in a statement.

During the tour, Al-Nuwaif and Al-Omar reviewed passenger reception procedures and inspection processes, and listened to staff feedback and suggestions for improving workflow. The statement added that Al-Nuwaif expressed pride in the dedication and vigilance of customs personnel, praising their commitment to fulfilling their national duties. — KUNA

KUWAIT: Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Justice and Chairperson of the 27th meeting of the undersecretaries of the Ministries of Justice in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states, Awatif Al-Sanad, affirmed Thursday that the gathering reflects the firm commitment of the justice ministries to advancing cooperation in the legal and judicial fields in service of GCC peoples.

In her opening remarks, Al-Sanad stressed that the meeting, held under the auspices of the GCC, comes in line with the provisions of the council’s basic law and the strong bonds of religion, history, and common destiny uniting its member states. She reiterated the GCC’s solidarity with Qatar following the recent attack it was subjected to, which claimed the lives of innocent civilians, describing it as a flagrant violation of international law and conventions.

She noted that the UN Security Council condemned the incident and affirmed support for Qatar’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, adding that Kuwait backs the joint GCC statement issued at the council meeting. “What affects the State of Qatar affects us all, reaffirming that the best way to confront international challenges is through unity and coordination of Gulf positions,” she said, citing the outcomes of the recent emergency Arab-Islamic summit in Doha.

Officials discuss during the meeting of GCC Justice Undersecretaries.- KUNA photos

Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Justice and Chairman of the 27th Meeting of Undersecretaries of the Ministries of Justice of Gulf Cooperation Council States, Awatif Al-Sand

Assistant Secretary-General for Legislative and Legal Affairs at the GCC General Secretariat, Advisor Sultan Al Suwaidi

Al-Sanad underlined the pivotal role played by GCC justice ministries in strengthening societal stability and trust in state institutions, highlighting legislative reforms, international agreements, and partnerships with the United Nations. She noted that Kuwait’s Ministry of Justice, under the supervision of Minister Counselor Nasser Al-Sumait, has reviewed 118 national laws within eight months and is working on a comprehensive review of all active legislation.

She added that efforts are also underway to transform the judicial system into a fully electronic platform to expedite litigation, deliver swift justice, and ensure transparency. She emphasized the importance of adopting constructive recommendations during the meeting and praised the GCC General Secretariat for its efforts in following up on the proceedings and preparing related documents.

For his part, GCC Assistant Secretary-General for Legislative and Legal Affairs, Advisor Sultan Al-Suwaidi, affirmed that judicial cooperation among member states has evolved from procedural coordination and exchange of expertise to becoming a cornerstone of legal security, public trust in the justice system, and sustainable development. He said the meeting represents another step in advancing joint Gulf action, modernizing legislation, and embracing digital transformation, thereby reinforcing integration and consolidating the region’s position in the legal and judicial arena.

Al-Suwaidi expressed gratitude to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Chairman of the current GCC Supreme Council session, for Kuwait’s dedicated efforts in ensuring the success of joint Gulf meetings during its presidency. — KUNA