First Media Engagement Marks a “Beautiful Beginning” in Kuwait

The Times Kuwait Report

British Ambassador H.E. Qudsi Rasheed recently held a meeting with local media representatives, which he described as a beautiful beginning to his relationship with the Kuwaiti press.

Speaking during the meeting, Ambassador Rasheed expressed his deep appreciation for the warm reception he has received since arriving in Kuwait from the country’s leadership, government officials, and the Kuwaiti people. He emphasized that the hospitality extended to him and his wife during their meetings made them feel that Kuwait had become a second home.

Despite his relatively short time in the country, the ambassador said he has already visited several regions across Kuwait, from the city to the farms of Al-Wafra, from the desert to key heritage sites, in addition to attending diwaniyas. These experiences, he said, helped him gain a deeper understanding of Kuwaiti culture, societal values, and the nation’s long and rich history.

Ambassador Rasheed outlined in particular three major impressions that have stood out since his arrival. First, he highlighted the depth of the historic and emotional relationship between Kuwait and the United Kingdom.

He noted that this connection is evident not only in diplomatic circles but also in everyday life whether through the enthusiasm of Kuwaitis for English football and the Premier League, or their frequent references to studying in or visiting the UK.

Second, he praised the vitality and dynamism of Kuwaiti society, describing Kuwaitis as hardworking yet appreciative of life, with a strong spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship. He said this outlook aligns closely with Kuwait Vision 2035, citing examples of young Kuwaitis who studied in London and successfully applied their ideas after returning home.

Third, he commended the openness of Kuwaiti society, particularly in media and public discourse. He observed that political, economic, and sports issues are discussed with notable transparency, adding that in just three months he had met a wide cross-section of Kuwaitis—reflecting the country’s accessibility and openness.

Recalling the message he received from His Highness the Amir upon presenting his credentials, Ambassador Rasheed said the Amir was exceptionally warm and welcoming. His Highness emphasized the importance of the historic ties between Kuwait and the United Kingdom and the role both countries have played in each other’s history. The ambassador added that His Highness encouraged him to deepen his understanding of Kuwait, its culture, and its people, and to work toward further strengthening bilateral relations.

Ambassador Rashdi stressed that UK–Kuwait relations are central to his diplomatic mission, noting that the partnership should not be defined solely by its past, but must also focus on the present and future. While preserving the shared historical legacy was vital, he underscored the importance of expanding cooperation in areas such as business, education, healthcare, and foreign policy. He also highlighted the need to invest in the relationship’s future particularly by engaging young people to ensure the partnership continues for generations, especially as Kuwait marks 35 years since liberation.

On economic cooperation, the ambassador said trade relations extend beyond traditional commerce to include education, defense, healthcare, and technology. He noted that Kuwait Vision 2035, alongside the UK’s industrial strategy, opens significant opportunities for collaboration in advanced sectors such as artificial intelligence, data centers, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing.

He affirmed that the UK views Vision 2035 as an ambitious and necessary initiative, noting that the current phase focuses on implementation. British companies, he said, are highly optimistic about opportunities in Kuwait, with the UK government acting as a facilitator by supporting engagement and helping companies understand the local market while respecting their independence.

In the defense sector, Ambassador Rasheed confirmed that military cooperation between the two countries remains strong and ongoing. This includes joint exercises such as ‘Desert Warrior’, as well as training programs for Kuwaiti military personnel in the UK, including at renowned institutions such as Sandhurst.

He also highlighted cooperation with the Ministry of Interior and the Coast Guard, including the training of the first group of female personnel in this field. Addressing regional security, he emphasized the depth of long-standing partnerships and alliances, affirming that political, military, and economic cooperation between the UK, Kuwait, and the wider region remains firm and active.

On the Palestinian cause, Ambassador Rasheed said the United Kingdom carries a historical and moral responsibility toward the Palestinian people. He reaffirmed Britain’s support for the right of Palestinians to establish their own state and achieve lasting security and stability.

He noted that recognition of the State of Palestine and the opening of an embassy would be an important step, but not the final one. He stressed the need for continued efforts, including pressure on Israel to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza and to support reconstruction initiatives. He also revealed that the UK has provided more than £100 million in aid to Gaza this year, and approximately £250 million over the past two years, covering food assistance, healthcare, shelter, and the removal of unexploded ordnance.

On visa matters, Ambassador Rasheed clarified that visa-free travel to the UK is limited to a small number of countries. However, he noted that GCC countries, including Kuwait, benefit from one of the UK’s most favorable systems through the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which he described as fast and user-friendly, contributing to an increase in Kuwaiti visitors.

For students, he explained that a separate visa system applies due to longer study periods, noting that more than 10,000 Kuwaiti students are currently studying in the UK, the highest number from any country worldwide.

Concluding his remarks, Ambassador Rasheed spoke about his professional and personal background, noting that he previously served in Egypt and Lebanon. He added that his wife, who is of Palestinian-Syrian origin, speaks Arabic fluently, which has helped them integrate smoothly into Kuwaiti society. He expressed his appreciation for local culture and Kuwaiti cuisine, and reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening UK–Kuwait relations throughout his tenure in the country.