The strategic partnership between Kuwait and China continues to thrive, with both countries emphasizing the importance of mutual respect, cooperation, and shared values. Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Deputy Foreign Minister of Kuwait, highlighted the profound growth in bilateral relations over the years. He underscored the commitment to strengthening ties across all sectors. He described this partnership as integral to the aspirations of both nations’ leaderships and peoples. It supports regional and global prosperity.
The remarks were made during an event at the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Kuwait. The event commemorated the 60th anniversary of the late Amir Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah’s historic 1965 visit to China. This visit marked the beginning of a lasting diplomatic relationship between the two countries.
Sheikh Jarrah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah noted that the late Amir’s visit embodied the Chinese proverb, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” He highlighted how that visit laid the foundation for diplomatic ties. These ties were formalized in 1971 with reciprocal embassy openings. This made Kuwait the first Arab Gulf state to establish relations with China. It positioned Kuwait as “China’s gateway to the Gulf region.”
Reflecting on recent milestones, Sheikh Jarrah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah recalled the successful visits by His Highness the late Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah in 2018. He also mentioned the visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah in 2023. Both visits helped to deepen bilateral relations and paved the way for future cooperation. The latter visit focused on creating a “Promising and Bright Future of Cooperation.”
Emphasizing the growing collaboration between Kuwait and China, Sheikh Jarrah noted the remarkable developments in trade, investment, and infrastructure. He pointed out that China has been Kuwait’s largest trading partner for ten consecutive years. It is also the second-largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in the country. Notable projects include the new Central Bank of Kuwait headquarters and the university city. Both of these were successfully completed by Chinese companies.
Strengthening Ties Through Strategic Cooperation
Ambassador Zhang Jianwei of the People’s Republic of China to Kuwait also reflected on the enduring partnership between the two nations. He acknowledged the vital role of the late Amir’s 1965 visit in establishing strong diplomatic relations. He recalled how Kuwait and China have supported each other over the past six decades.
Ambassador Zhang highlighted the significance of mutual visits between leaders of both countries, which have consistently advanced relations with a long-term strategic outlook. He noted the growing economic ties. Kuwait’s second foreign investment office opened in Shanghai, further cementing China as a key player in Kuwait’s development.
Overall, Kuwait-China relations have flourished in trade, infrastructure development, and economic cooperation. This underscores the strength of the partnership and the potential for continued mutual growth.
