Kuwait celebrates 23 years of ACD, committed to elevating forum into int’l organization

Assistant Foreign Minister for Asian Affairs, Ambassador H.E Samih Hayat, has affirmed Kuwait’s unwavering commitment to strengthening global cooperation and constructive dialogue, particularly with Asian nations, in pursuit of mutual development, regional integration, and shared prosperity.

Ambassador Hayat made the statement to reporters during the 23rd anniversary celebrations of the Asian Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) Forum, in Kuwait which was attended by heads of diplomatic missions and representatives from international organizations.

He said that the foundation for the ACD Forum, which was laid in 2002 from Kuwait, stemmed from Kuwait’s strategic vision to promote dialogue and collaboration among the diverse regions of Asia to create synergy among major Asian blocs, including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

Ambassador Hayat added that Kuwait is now spearheading efforts to elevate the ACD Forum into a full-fledged international organization with global reach and influence. This strategic proposal was introduced at the forum’s third summit in Doha, Qatar in October 2023, and Kuwait has since been actively working on its realization.

“The State of Kuwait is exerting tremendous efforts to implement this vision as soon as possible,” he said, lauding the widespread support from the forum’s Asian member states. “Their backing further reinforces the foundation of dialogue, strategic partnership, and regional unity,” he added.

Echoing the Ambassador’s remarks, Ambassador H.E. Nasser Al-Mutairi, Secretary-General of the ACD Forum, outlined the forum’s comprehensive strategic goals, which are built around six key pillars — connectivity and communication; science, technology, and innovation; education and human capital development; interlinked security of food, water, and energy; culture and tourism and sustainable and inclusive development.

Ambassador Al-Mutairi emphasized the forum’s commitment to translating these pillars into actionable frameworks by increasing institutional coordination and cooperation with both regional and international organizations.

He also highlighted upcoming ministerial-level meetings involving regional blocs and secretariats, aimed at enhancing engagement among member states and accelerating the forum’s transformation into a globally recognized entity.

Al-Mutairi praised Kuwait for not only initiating the ACD but also for hosting its permanent headquarters. He noted that Kuwait’s continuous support reflects its deep-rooted belief in collective action and multilateral cooperation, particularly as the world faces increasing geopolitical, economic, and environmental challenges.

“Kuwait’s leadership in supporting the forum stems from its strategic foresight and commitment to multilateralism in an ever-changing global landscape,” he said.

The celebration was marked by the participation of more than twenty embassies from ACD member countries. The event featured a vibrant exhibition showcasing the cultural, historical, and civilizational richness of the Asian continent, underlining the shared values and heritage that bind the region together.