Kuwait focuses on expanding diplomatic horizons with Canada

• The 60th anniversary celebration at the National Library highlighted Kuwait-Canada’s strong historical ties, fruitful cooperation, and shared commitment to the UN Charter, international law, and human rights.

• H. E. Aliya Mawani, Ambassador of Canada to Kuwait, highlighted Kuwait’s vital role in Canada’s defense and regional security, hosting a Canadian Armed Forces base since 2011 and also noted that the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations comes at a time of global transformation, with both countries assuming key leadership roles.

• Ambassador Mawani emphasized that Canada and Kuwait prioritize collective problem-solving, a principle central to their diplomatic relations since 1965, reinforced by Canada’s role in Kuwait’s liberation with 4,500 troops.

Nawaf Abdullatif Sulaiman Al-Ahmed, Assistant Foreign Minister for the Americas and Minister Plenipotentiary, emphasized Kuwait’s commitment to enhancing its relationship with Canada and expanding it to new horizons, according to Al Rai newspaper.

During his participation in the celebration marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, hosted by the National Library, Al-Ahmad emphasized that Kuwaiti-Canadian relations are deep-rooted and extend beyond the official framework to include vibrant cultural and tourism exchanges, as evidenced by the increasing number of Kuwaiti tourists visiting Canada.

Fruitful cooperation

The event provided an opportunity to highlight the strong historical ties and fruitful cooperation between the two nations, along with shared foreign policy principles such as respect for the United Nations Charter, international law, and human rights. Al-Ahmad also expressed gratitude for Canada’s support during Kuwait’s brutal invasion, reflecting its commitment to the values of freedom and justice.

In turn, H. E. Aliya Mawani, Ambassador of Canada to the State of Kuwait, expressed her “great honor” in having the event held under the auspices of Foreign Minister Abdullah Al-Yahya, calling it a testament to the strength and enduring nature of the bilateral relationship.

Kuwait key partner in Canada’s defense, security

Ambassador Mawani said that Kuwait is an important partner in Canada’s defense and security, having hosted a base for the Canadian Armed Forces since 2011. Kuwait also plays a crucial role in security, stability, and humanitarian engagement throughout the region.

She added, “The 60th anniversary of our diplomatic relations comes at a time of change and transformation in both our countries and the world. This period is marked by polarization and uncertainty, yet it also coincides with both nations assuming key leadership roles. Canada is the President of the Group of Seven, while Kuwait is the President of the Gulf Cooperation Council and the Capital of Arab Culture and Media for 2025. These positions provide platforms for us, as partners and members of the global community, to pursue our shared commitment to humanitarian action, cooperation, and enhancing global security and stability.”

Canada and Kuwait favor a collective approach

Ambassador Mawani emphasized, “Canada and Kuwait favor a collective approach to solving problems. We firmly believe that more can be achieved together, and this has been the essence of our diplomatic relations since the official establishment of ties on April 27, 1965. This is further reinforced by Canada’s role in Kuwait’s liberation,where about 4,500 of our troops participated.”

She also noted that the liberation of Kuwait “was the first time women were deployed in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) in a war zone and in combat roles.”

Canada’s quality products and sustainable agriculture is a perfect match for Kuwait

The Canadian ambassador highlighted that the launch of the day “marks the beginning of an anniversary program of events and activities that will take place throughout 2025. These events will focus on communication and emphasize key aspects of the relationship, including cultural exchange, cooperation in healthcare, education, information and communication technology, sports, and food. Canada is known for its high-quality products and sustainable agricultural practices from coast to coast, and people in Kuwait know good food, making it an ideal match.”

Kuwait has long championed rapprochement, friendship, and positive partnerships between nations. – Dr. Mohammed Al-Jassar

Dr. Mohammed Al-Jassar, Secretary-General of the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Literature, emphasized the depth of Kuwaiti-Canadian relations across various fields. He noted that many Kuwaiti professionals contributing to the country’s development are graduates of Canadian universities, known for their strong reputation.

Al-Jassar further explained that Kuwait and Canada are collaborating to promote peace both regionally and globally, sharing the same core principles. He also highlighted that Kuwait has consistently championed the values of rapprochement, friendship, and positive partnerships between peoples and has worked diligently to strengthen its relationships with all nations.

Kuwaiti traditional Sadu and Canadian maple leaf icons of unity and heritage

Ambassador Mawani stated that Kuwait and Canada “are united by a shared history of cooperation, so it is no surprise that our focus this year is on communication. This is beautifully reflected in the slogan for the 60th anniversary of our relations, which is inspired by the traditional Sadu – an essential part of Kuwait’s heritage. The design incorporates key Canadian and Kuwaiti symbols, reflecting the spirit and diversity of both nations. If you look closely, you will see the Kuwaiti flag and the design of the traditional Al-Aurjan triangle, along with the Canadian maple leaf and the Inukshuk, a statue made of stones used by the indigenous people of the Canadian Arctic as both a navigational tool and a meeting point.”