In a strong reflection of Kuwait-Austria ties, Kuwait recently hosted a high-level Austrian economic delegation to deepen trade and investment cooperation in line with Kuwait Vision 2035.
Sheikh Mubarak, Al Abdulla Chairman of the Kuwaiti-Austrian Friendship Group, emphasized that mutual trust forms the backbone of relations between the two nations, providing a solid base for expanding economic and trade partnerships.
Speaking as guest of honor at a reception hosted by the Austrian Ambassador to Kuwait, HE Ulrich Frank, Sheikh Mubarak praised the visit — the first in over five years — as a valuable chance to exchange expertise and strengthen connections with specialized companies.
He highlighted Austria’s technological edge in sectors like construction and renewable energy — areas that align with Kuwait’s development goals — and affirmed the presence of Kuwaiti investments in Austria, calling Vienna’s market “safe, stable, and investor-friendly.”
Ambassador Frank hailed the “excellent and evolving” bilateral ties, spanning over 60 years, and shared his enthusiasm for returning to Kuwait as ambassador.
He welcomed Kuwait’s hosting of the first political consultations round and looked forward to Vienna hosting the next. He also encouraged Kuwaiti investors to explore opportunities in tourism, technology, and education.
Dr. Werner Fasslabend, former Austrian Defense Minister and President of the Austro-Arab Chamber of Commerce, said the visit aims to build trust and direct engagement, beyond formal agreements.
The delegation includes 22 Austrian companies and major figures like the President of the Austrian Federation of Industries and representatives from firms such as Rosenbauer and ANSERS.
Fasslabend stressed Kuwait’s strategic importance, especially under Vision 2035, which mirrors Austria’s strengths in technology and renewable energy. He also pointed to Austria’s potential in healthcare and tourism, calling for joint efforts to turn vision into reality.
On his background, Fasslabend noted his past work with Henkel Austria and a decade-long tenure as Defense Minister. He now heads the Austro-Arab Chamber of Commerce.
Dr. Fasslabend recalled nominating an Austrian general for a UN peacekeeping mission after Kuwait’s liberation in the early 1990s, marking the start of a relationship with Kuwait that continues today. “I follow Kuwait’s news closely,” he said, “especially its evolving ties with Iraq.”
