KUWAIT: Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdullah Al-Yahya praised the longstanding and deep-rooted relations between Kuwait and the United Kingdom, describing them as “historic and firmly established.” Speaking on the sidelines of the British Embassy’s second annual King’s Birthday Party, Al-Yahya noted that relations between the two countries, which span more than 250 years, began as commercial ties and have since evolved into a solid strategic partnership.
This year marks a landmark in UK-Kuwait relations: the 250th anniversary of official trading ties, underpinned by strong cooperation in trade, investment, defence and culture. Diplomatic relations have also reached new heights, with a series of high-level visits and meetings. The UK recently hosted the 22nd UK-Kuwait Joint Steering Group, where both sides reaffirmed strong bilateral ties and agreed on actions to enhance cooperation across trade, investment, defence and regional security. Two Memoranda of Understanding were signed – one on healthcare collaboration and another on hydrographic surveying – strengthening health systems, training, and maritime security.
In his remarks, Qudsi Rasheed, British Ambassador Designate to Kuwait, expressed deep gratitude to Al-Yahya for attending the celebration, saying the minister’s presence “reaffirms the depth of relations between the UK and Kuwait, the Royal Family, and His Majesty the King.” He added that since arriving in Kuwait, he and his wife already feel that “Kuwait is our second home.”
The Ambassador highlighted the distinguished bilateral relationship which began with thriving Gulf–British trade and the establishment of one of the oldest commercial partnerships between Europe and the region. He also spoke about enduring political ties of more than 125 years, and strong people-to-people links reflected in the thousands of Kuwaiti students studying in the UK and Kuwaiti families who consider cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh their second home.
He shared a story about his predecessor, Sir Michael Weston, who served as Ambassador during the 1990 Iraqi invasion. While many diplomats and foreign nationals were evacuated, Sir Michael remained in Kuwait for five months under siege, surviving on canned food and filtered swimming pool water. “He stayed not only out of duty to his country, but out of loyalty to Kuwait and the values we share,” the Ambassador said. Forced to leave only after Kuwait’s liberation, Sir Michael returned immediately to welcome then–Prime Minister John Major. “I share this story because it embodies what the UK-Kuwait relationship truly means – commitment and trust. It is a partnership that endures through celebrations, investments, and friendships, as well as in the most difficult times when solidarity is essential,” he added.
Al-Yahya emphasized that the Ambassador’s recounting of the Iraqi invasion underscores the resilience of the historic relationship between the two countries. He said the details “deserve to be documented, as they reaffirm the solidity of the ties between Kuwait and the United Kingdom.”
On the Kuwait-UK Joint Steering Committee, Al-Yahya affirmed that meetings under this framework are ongoing. “The joint work plan is excellent, moving in the right direction and open to development at every opportunity,” he said. He expressed hope that its next meeting would be held soon, noting that these engagements continue to progress positively.
Addressing regional and international issues, Al-Yahya stated that coordination between Kuwait and the UK on developments in Gaza and Ukraine remains close, with both countries sharing aligned views. “The continuation of a ceasefire in Gaza remains the essential benchmark,” he stressed, highlighting the importance of efforts to protect the Palestinian people.
Reflecting on global challenges, including the devastation in Gaza and the ongoing invasion of Ukraine, Ambassador Rasheed stressed the need for joint efforts to support peace and alleviate suffering. “The spirit of shared purpose – standing together – has defined our 125-year diplomatic relationship, and it will guide us through the challenges and opportunities ahead,” he said. He concluded by expressing pride in the rich history uniting the UK and Kuwait, and optimism for the years ahead. “I look forward to the coming years in this historic residence, to the friendships we will build, and to the experiences we will share,” he said.
