KUWAIT: Ambassador of Italy to Kuwait, Lorenzo Morini reaffirmed the strong and growing ties between Italy and Kuwait, noting that both countries are preparing for high-level visits and meetings in the coming months. During a press briefing to announce the “Italy Design Festival”, the ambassador stated “We enjoy an excellent bilateral relationship, and we are working to enhance cooperation in various sectors from defense and investment to science, education, and health.”
He announced that Italy and Kuwait maintain close defense cooperation, including the Eurofighter program, which is nearing completion with full delivery expected by early 2026. The Ambassador also highlighted ongoing partnerships between Kuwait’s National Guard and Italy’s Carabinieri, as well as joint initiatives on counterterrorism and security training.
He added that Italian companies, such as Pizzarotti, continue to contribute to Kuwait’s infrastructure, having built major projects like the new Maternity Hospital. Several Italian brands and contractors maintain an active presence in Kuwait across various sectors. The Ambassador praised Kuwait’s strong investment presence in Italy through entities such as Kuwait Petroleum International (Kuwait Petroleum) and the Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA). Italian companies are also investing in Kuwait, with joint ventures and technology transfer initiatives underway.
Regarding Tourism, he noted that it continues to grow, with increasing numbers of Kuwaitis traveling to Italy and Italian visitors discovering Kuwait, adding “We have noticed a rise in visa requests and growing enthusiasm for Italian destinations.” In education, the ambassador pointed out that there has been a significant increase in Kuwaiti students enrolling in Italian universities, many of which offer English-language programs. The two countries are also enhancing health cooperation, particularly in home care and elderly healthcare services, with discussions underway for a memorandum of understanding in this sector.
Meanwhile, Italy’s archaeological missions in Kuwait continue to uncover important historical findings, particularly on Failaka Island and along the Doha coast. The Ambassador revealed that discoveries are being documented for publication in an upcoming book supported by the Italian government. During the conference, the Italian ambassador announced the launch of “Italian Design Festival” a series of events celebrating Italian Design Day, highlighting Italy’s creativity and cultural excellence across multiple sectors. The celebration, organized in collaboration with Kuwaiti institutions, will take place between October 19 and October 25, offering a rich program of exhibitions, concerts, and performances.
Ambassador of Italy to Kuwait, Lorenzo Morini
The Ambassador emphasized Italy’s longstanding tradition of promoting design, creativity, and culture worldwide, saying “Italian Design Day showcases the very essence of our creativity – from furniture, fashion, and jewelry to art, music, and cuisine. Here in Kuwait, Italian products and culture are highly appreciated, and this year we wanted to do something different, more inclusive and engaging.”
The festivities will begin on Sunday, October 19, with the opening of an Italian exhibition, featuring Italian brands from various sectors, including fashion, food, furniture, medical equipment, perfumes, and automobiles. Also, displays of iconic Italian vehicles such as Maserati, Ferrari, and Vespa throughout the mall, with special sections dedicated to Italian jewelry and design.
During the weekend, The Avenues will host the renowned Sbandieratori di Gubbio, a traditional Italian flag-waving group that will perform on October 24 and 25. The performance, rooted in medieval Italian heritage, will feature colorful flags, historical costumes, and live traditional music. On October 21, the Contemporary Art Platform (CAP) will open an art exhibition by Italian artist Fiorentini, featuring portraits of landscapes, animals, and cars. The opening ceremony will include a live jazz concert.
Additionally, Italian designers will deliver lectures at Kuwait University and CAP, engaging with Kuwaiti architects and design students to strengthen creative collaboration. The festivities will also include a concert at the Americani Museum on October 19, featuring Italian and Kuwaiti musicians performing iconic film scores by composers such as Ennio Morricone. “This collaboration between Italian and Kuwaiti artists represents a beautiful symbol of unity and friendship between our two countries,” said the Ambassador. The Ambassador concluded by expressing his hope that the Italian Design Week will further strengthen the cultural and creative bonds between Italy and Kuwait.
