KUWAIT: First Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef Al-Sabah, in the presence of Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, received the editors-in-chief of Kuwait’s daily newspapers, including Kuwait Times Editor-in-Chief Dr M Ziad Al-Alyan, along with the head of Kuwait Journalists Association.
The meeting, initiated by dean of Kuwaiti journalists and Editor-in-Chief of Al-Seyassah newspaper Ahmed Al-Jarallah, provided an opportunity to discuss several issues of mutual concern. Sheikh Fahad highlighted the ministry of interior’s efforts to enhance security and safeguard social stability under the guidance of the country’s leadership, stressing that security remains the cornerstone of national development.
The discussions also touched on the importance of national identity in strengthening belonging and citizenship values. Sheikh Fahad affirmed the government’s commitment to supporting all initiatives that preserve and promote national identity across media, cultural and societal platforms. He underscored the role of the citizenship grievances committee, tasked with reviewing cases related to withdrawal, revocation and loss of Kuwaiti nationality. The committee, he said, operates with full transparency and flexibility in line with laws and regulations to ensure fairness and the protection of rights.
The meeting further emphasized the vital partnership between the media and state institutions in addressing national issues. Sheikh Fahad praised the historical role of Kuwaiti journalism as a key partner in highlighting national achievements and raising public awareness.
On the topic of visas and residency, Sheikh Fahad noted that the ministry is developing advanced systems that strike a balance between facilitating entry for investors and visitors, while safeguarding national interests and public security. He stressed that the opening of visit visas is closely monitored on a daily basis to ensure full compliance with regulations, with immediate action taken against violators. The move, he added, is designed to stimulate the economy, promote tourism and attract foreign investment, reinforcing Kuwait’s position as a hub for investors and entrepreneurs.
Sheikh Fahad also addressed the drug issue, stressing that the ministry of interior has implemented a comprehensive plan to cut off drug sources both inside and outside the country. This plan includes close coordination with friendly states. He noted that recent visits to Syria and Lebanon resulted in concrete strategies to curb the flow of drugs, leading to daily seizures of large quantities. This reflects the government’s seriousness in tackling the issue on multiple fronts: Combating smuggling and trafficking, establishing specialized addiction treatment centers, and raising public awareness for prevention.
He pointed out that maritime smuggling has nearly been eliminated thanks to a new radar surveillance system and the deployment of unmanned boats equipped with advanced technologies to detect and intercept attempts at sea. He affirmed that the government is pursuing an integrated and coordinated strategy across all agencies to protect society from the dangers of drugs.
The meeting concluded with appreciation extended to Sheikh Fahad for engaging with the press. Participants emphasized the importance of continuing such periodic dialogues between government leaders and the media as a platform for discussion and exchange of views in the national interest, reinforcing the media’s role in social responsibility.
