The Embassy of Canada in Kuwait hosted a distinguished closing ceremony at the Official Residence of Canada to mark the conclusion of celebrations commemorating the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Canada and Kuwait, highlighting six decades of partnership, collaboration, and people-to-people ties.
Delivering the keynote address, H.E. Tara Scheurwater, Ambassador of Canada to Kuwait, welcomed senior Kuwaiti officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and friends of both nations, describing the anniversary year as a defining chapter in bilateral relations.
“It is my pleasure to welcome you tonight to the Official Residence of Canada as we come together to celebrate — and to officially close — the 60th Anniversary of Canada–Kuwait Diplomatic Relations,” she said. “This year has been a remarkable journey, and I am truly grateful that you are all here to mark this milestone moment with us.”
Ambassador Scheurwater noted that 2025 had been an exceptional year for the Canadian Embassy in Kuwait, guided by the anniversary theme “Collaboration and Connection.”
She emphasized that the theme reflected the depth of shared history between the two countries, from Canada’s role in the liberation of Kuwait to ongoing defense cooperation and the strong presence of Canadians living and working in the country.
“Our anniversary theme—Collaboration and Connection—guided everything we did,” she said, adding that it symbolized both historic ties and modern partnerships spanning defense, culture, education, and community life.
She highlighted the anniversary’s visual identity, inspired by Kuwait’s traditional Sadu weaving, as a symbol of cultural interconnection. “The logo is an adaptation of traditional Sadu… bringing together important Canadian and Kuwaiti symbols,” she explained, pointing to elements such as the Kuwaiti flag, the awarjan triangle, the Canadian maple leaf, and the Indigenous Inukshuk, representing guidance and unity.
Reflecting on the year-long program of events, Ambassador Scheurwater outlined a series of landmark initiatives made possible through close collaboration with Kuwaiti institutions and private-sector partners.
The celebrations began with a high-profile launch ceremony held in January at the Kuwait National Library under the patronage of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, attended by more than 300 guests.
Among the standout initiatives was the creation of a “Friendship Blend” coffee, developed in partnership with Tim Hortons through a national competition, symbolizing the fusion of Canadian and Kuwaiti cultures. Cultural diplomacy featured prominently, including a concert by renowned Canadian pianist and composer Steve Barakatt at the Yarmouk Cultural Centre, hosted in collaboration with Dar Al Athar Al Islamiyyah.
The ambassador also highlighted the “Take Your Seat, Together – Canada and Kuwait” photography project by Canadian duo Randy and Spencer VanDerStarren, which captured moments of unity across Kuwait.
“As you leave this evening,” she said, “I invite you to pick up your own copy of the Take Your Seat commemorative photo book — a tangible reminder of this shared journey.”
Other key moments included Canada’s Flag Day reception, cultural and art exhibitions with the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, classical music collaborations, a Francophonie Diwaniya marking International Women’s Day, and the first-ever Canada–Kuwait friendly ice hockey match, underscoring the role of sport in building connections.
Sustainability and community engagement were also central themes, highlighted through a Thanksgiving Environmental Stewardship event and a social media campaign profiling individuals and institutions shaping bilateral relations.
The anniversary year further featured the Canada–Kuwait Mural Project, unveiled at the Sharq 52 Building in Bneid Al Gar, and an Alumni Recognition Reception honoring Kuwaiti graduates of Canadian institutions.
“Each event reflected a different dimension of our partnership—arts and culture, innovation, education, trade, defense, sustainability, and, of course, our shared love of good food,” Ambassador Scheurwater said.
She expressed deep appreciation to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, the Ministry of Information, community organizations, sponsors, and partners, acknowledging their vital role in the success of the anniversary program.
Special thanks were also extended to Lumiere Events for coordinating the year-long celebrations and the sponsors of the event.
As the evening concluded, Ambassador Scheurwater reflected on the legacy of the anniversary year and the future of bilateral relations. “This is not the end of a chapter — it is the beginning of the next 60 years of collaboration, friendship, and opportunity between Canada and Kuwait,” she said. “The Embassy will continue to deepen engagement across sectors and expand the many pathways that connect our two nations.”
The ceremony also paid tribute to the leadership of former ambassador H.E. Aliya Mawani and embassy staff whose efforts laid the foundation for the anniversary’s success. The evening concluded with a musical performance by Kuwaiti oud player Emad Al Khalifa, followed by a closing video showcasing highlights from the year-long celebrations.
“Sixty years of friendship is more than a number — it’s a living legacy of collaboration, trust, and people-to-people connection,” Ambassador Scheurwater said, inviting guests to reflect on the shared journey and future promise of Canada–Kuwait relations.
