Canada and Kuwait celebrate 60 years of strong bilateral relations and cooperation

The Canadian Ambassador to Kuwait, Her Excellency Aliya Mawani, emphasized that the 60th Flag Day and the 60th anniversary of Canada-Kuwait relations come at a time of global change and transformation.

Ambassador Mawani highlighted that this milestone coincides with both nations assuming key leadership roles—Canada as President of the G7, and Kuwait as President of the Gulf Cooperation Council and the Arab Capital of Culture and Media for 2025.

In her speech during the celebration of Canadian National Flag Day, attended by Minister of Trade and Industry Khalifa Al-Ajeel, numerous ambassadors, and members of the armed forces from around the world, Ambassador Mawani stated that these leadership roles offer both countries a platform to strengthen their partnership and global engagement. She emphasized their shared commitment to humanitarian action, cooperation, and promoting global security and stability—key priorities for economic development and prosperity worldwide.

Ambassador Mawani stated that Canada and Kuwait both support a collective approach to problem-solving, emphasizing that greater achievements are possible through cooperation. She added that this principle defines their diplomatic relations and has been the foundation of Canada-Kuwait cooperation since their official ties were established on April 27, 1965.

This commitment was strengthened by Canada’s role in Kuwait’s liberation during the First Gulf War, with around 4,500 Canadian service personnel participating. It continues through Kuwait’s hosting of a Canadian Armed Forces base since 2011, which plays a key role in regional security, stability, and humanitarian efforts.

Ambassador Mawani noted that the celebration is part of a year-long series of events in 2025, focusing on communication and key aspects of Canada-Kuwait relations, including cultural exchange, trade, healthcare, education, technology, energy, defense, security, sports, and food. She announced the upcoming launch of the 60th anniversary “friendship mix” at Tim Hortons, blending Canadian and Kuwaiti flavors for Ramadan, and encouraged everyone to follow their social media campaign showcasing influential figures connecting both nations.

Ambassador Mawani concluded her speech by extending her best wishes to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and the Kuwaiti people on National Day and Liberation Day, saying, “Long live Kuwait and its people.” She expressed gratitude for the long-standing friendship between Canada and Kuwait, emphasizing the importance of communication, cooperation, and preserving human dignity for a sustainable future. She reaffirmed the commitment to a strong and lasting partnership, working together for peace, security, and prosperity for both nations and future generations.

A Cadre

The Canadian Ambassador highlighted that the shared history of Canada and Kuwait is one of cooperation, making this year’s focus on communication especially fitting. She pointed to the 60th anniversary logo, displayed on the screen, as a perfect reflection of this theme. The design incorporates traditional Al-Sadu weaving, a key element of Kuwaiti heritage, and blends symbols from both nations. It features the Kuwaiti flag and triangle design, alongside the Canadian maple leaf and the Inuksuk, a stone landmark used by Indigenous communities in the Canadian Arctic as a navigational guide and meeting point.

The ceremony featured a special performance by Canadian music icon Steve Barakat in honor of Flag Day. To mark the 60th anniversary of Canada-Kuwait relations, Barakat composed a piece titled “Snow Dunes”, which he premiered last night at the Yarmouk Cultural Centre of the Islamic Antiquities House alongside Kuwaiti pianist Faisal Al-Behairi. The audience was invited to enjoy the piece during the event.