KUWAIT: Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike said Friday that cooperation between Kuwait and Japan in women’s empowerment, education and culture “forms a practical bridge that translates shared values into initiatives that make a tangible difference.”
Koike spoke during a visit to the Women’s Cultural and Social Society (WCSS) in Kuwait during an official visit to the country. The visit is part of a regional tour covering Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Egypt, aimed at deepening cooperation with Arab nations and promoting Tokyo’s role as a global hub for innovation and sustainability.
In remarks published by Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Koike said she looked forward to expanding joint programs between women’s organizations in both countries to develop the next generation of leaders. “Empowering women is the foundation for comprehensive development and prosperity,” Koike said. “I am confident that expanding women’s participation in positions of influence and decision-making enriches society and accelerates progress.” She highlighted positive developments in women’s leadership in Japan, adding that the next phase would see “greater utilization of women’s potential in the economy, governance and innovation.”
Minister of Social Affairs and Minister of Family and Childhood Affairs Dr Amthal Al-Huwailah said Koike’s visit reflected the depth of the historic friendship between Kuwait and Japan. Koike’s “distinguished presence among us today in her second home, the State of Kuwait, truly expresses our shared commitment to strengthening developmental, humanitarian and cultural partnerships,” Al-Huwailah said.
During the meeting, Dr Nourah Al-Shuaibi, head of Kuwait University’s Women’s Studies and Research Center, highlighted the center’s projects to support Kuwaiti women in education, leadership and entrepreneurship. She said the center aims to connect research with public policy on women’s issues in ways that “promote family stability and social progress.”
WCSS Chairperson Dr Manal Al-Daihani said Koike’s leadership stood as “a global model and source of inspiration.” She called the Tokyo governor’s visit “a source of pride and an opportunity to strengthen partnerships that foster more inclusive and prosperous societies.” Al-Daihani also congratulated Japan on appointing a woman as prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, describing it as “a historic achievement that advances gender equality.” — Agencies
