Diplomatic reshuffle to usher in new era for Kuwaiti foreign policy

• The reshuffle aims to provide opportunities for younger diplomats and enhance efficiency.

• Some officials will retire, while others will be appointed as ambassadors abroad in August. New ambassadors will be appointed to key capitals like London, Paris, Madrid, and Rome.

Kuwait’s foreign policy landscape is set for a shakeup as Foreign Minister H.E. Abdullah Al-Yahya announced an imminent reshuffle within the Foreign Ministry. This restructuring will affect assistant ministers and the diplomatic corps.

Planned departures and reassignments

The reshuffle will involve the departure of some officials, with retirements expected. In August, a rotation of mission heads will take place, with some diplomats transitioning to roles as ambassadors abroad.

Minister Al-Yahya addressed questions from Al-Nahar regarding the reassignment of 31 ambassadors and consuls general to the ministry.

He assured the public that these reassigned diplomats are experienced professionals who will take on important administrative roles within the ministry.

The minister emphasized that the reassigned ambassadors have served extensively abroad.

The ministry’s strategic plan prioritizes providing opportunities for younger diplomats to represent Kuwait on the global stage. This process of filling vacant ambassadorial positions is expected to be finalized in August.

Minister Al-Yahya confirmed that ambassadors in major capitals, including Moscow, Washington, and Beijing, will remain in their posts.

However, new leadership will be appointed in key European cities such as London, Paris, Madrid,and Bucharest.

The minister highlighted that Kuwait has a sufficient number of qualified diplomats to fill all ambassadorial vacancies.

Additionally, there are plans to appoint deputy ambassadors in strategically important capitals and major Kuwaiti missions abroad.

Streamlining the diplomatic network

Minister Al-Yahya disclosed plans to close four diplomatic missions across various continents. These closures, pending approval by the political leadership, are intended to optimize the ministry’s resources.

The specific locations were not revealed, but the minister explained that these missions are geographically close to other existing Kuwaiti embassies.

He pointed out that this trend of embassy closures is a global phenomenon, citing Belgium’s recent streamlining efforts.

Ultimately, the decision to close a mission hinges on its necessity and effectiveness.

Expanding reach

Minister Al-Yahya introduced a significant shift in the selection process for ambassadors. Inspired by Singapore’s approach, Kuwait will now appoint ambassadors directly from within the country, moving away from the previous practice of selecting from neighboring regions.

Furthermore, the minister announced plans to open new Kuwaiti embassies in capitals where none currently exist.

While specific details regarding locations and timelines were not provided, this initiative signals Kuwait’s commitment to expanding its diplomatic footprint on the world stage.

Performance monitoring and strategic focus

Minister Al-Yahya revealed the establishment of a dedicated office to oversee the performance of new ambassadors.

This Inspection and Embassy Performance Monitoring Office, previously focused solely on inspections, will now also monitor the effectiveness of embassies. The office will be staffed by assistant ministers and experienced personnel.

The minister concluded the announcement by outlining a comprehensive plan for new ambassadors.

This plan focuses on fostering stronger cooperation with friendly and sisterly nations in key areas like food security, economic collaboration, and military cooperation.