Former deputy foreign minister Khaled Al-Jarallah passes away
The late diplomat, known for his political acumen, played a vital role in representing Kuwait on the international stage, addressing key regional and global issues, and maintaining a strong presence at diplomatic conferences and summits.
• Khaled Al-Jarallah, who passed away at 78, joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and embarked on a diplomatic career that saw him rise through the ranks to become one of the most influential figures in Kuwaiti foreign policy.
Khaled Al-Jarallah, who served as Kuwait’s Deputy Foreign Minister from 1999 to 2021, passed away on Sunday at the age of 78 after a distinguished career in national service, Al Rai newspaper reported.
A busy diplomatic career
Khaled Al-Jarallah was born in 1947 in Kuwait City. After graduating from Kuwait University’s Department of Political Science in 1971, he joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, embarking on a diplomatic career that saw him rise through the ranks to become one of the most influential figures in Kuwaiti foreign policy.
Positions and achievements
- 1972–1974: Served as Kuwait’s Ambassador to Lebanon, playing a key role in strengthening bilateral relations during a sensitive period.
- 1974–1987: Led the Arab Affairs Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, contributing significantly to regional issues and Arab cooperation.
- 1987: Took charge of Gulf Cooperation Council affairs, enhancing Kuwait’s role within the Gulf system.
- 1999–2021: Appointed Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, leading Kuwaiti diplomacy in various international forums for over two decades amid significant political transformations in the region. In January 2021, Al-Jarallah resigned in compliance with Amiri Decree No. 3 of 2021, which revoked ministerial appointments, marking the end of his 22-year tenure as Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs and leaving a lasting impact on Kuwaiti foreign policy.
The late diplomat was known for his political acumen, ever-present smile, calm demeanor, wisdom, and strong rapport with journalists. He played a vital role in representing Kuwait on the international stage, managing key regional and global issues, and maintaining a strong presence at diplomatic conferences and summits.
With the passing of Al-Jarallah, Kuwait loses a veteran diplomat who made invaluable contributions to his country, though his legacy will endure in Kuwaiti diplomacy.
Al-Rai newspaper extends its deepest condolences to his family.
“We belong to Allah, and to Him we shall return.”
