Swiss Assistant Foreign Minister for the Middle East and North Africa, Monika Schmutz, lauded Kuwait as a “beacon of progress and stability in the region” during her speech at a reception hosted by the Kuwaiti Embassy in Switzerland. The event celebrated Kuwait’s 64th Independence Anniversary and 34th Liberation Day. It was attended by a distinguished group of diplomats and officials, including Kuwaiti Ambassador to Switzerland, Ziad Al-Mashaan.
Schmutz commended Kuwait’s vibrant culture, dynamic society, and steadfast commitment to peace and development. She acknowledged the positive impact it has had not only on its people but also on global partners. She emphasized the strong bilateral ties between Switzerland and Kuwait. Schmutz noted that many Kuwaiti families regard Switzerland as a top destination. The country attracts thousands of Kuwaiti tourists annually, particularly to French-speaking cities, fostering deeper cultural connections between the two nations.
The Swiss diplomat also highlighted the economic cooperation between the two countries. She focused on the “Swiss-Kuwaiti Business Platform” established in 2023. This platform aims to enhance trade partnerships and promote joint efforts in humanitarian sectors, particularly in the context of the Global Alliance for Missing Persons. This initiative is done in collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross.
Kuwaiti Ambassador Ziad Al-Mashaan also spoke at the reception, expressing pride in the longstanding relations between Kuwait and Switzerland. He noted that the two countries’ approaches align in supporting mediation and resolving conflicts through peaceful means. He emphasized the strength of the economic partnership. Al-Mashaan pointed to investments by the Kuwait Sovereign Fund in Switzerland, which exceed $15 billion. This substantial investment demonstrates Kuwait’s trust in Switzerland’s economic environment and legal framework for foreign investors.
Ambassador Al-Mashaan further praised the critical role of Kuwaiti women in various sectors, including politics, economics, and social affairs. He noted that Kuwait’s development plan prioritizes increasing women’s participation and access to decision-making roles. In this context, he discussed Kuwait’s commitment to implementing UN Security Council Resolution No. 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security. This is a step towards integrating women in peacebuilding processes. The creation of a National Committee to execute the resolution in December 2023 marks a significant milestone in this ongoing effort.
Al-Mashaan also expressed his aspirations for political consultations between Kuwait and Switzerland in the near future. He aims to further strengthen their bilateral relations. The event was attended by high-profile figures, including Patricia Danzi, Director-General of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation. This underscores the importance of the relationship between the two countries.
