Kuwait-Japan strengthen ties through women’s empowerment, cultural cooperation
Cooperation between Kuwait and Japan in women’s empowerment, education, and culture represents is a practical bridge translating shared values into tangible initiatives that make a difference -- Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike
Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs, Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah, said the visit of Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike to the Women’s Cultural and Social Association on Friday reflects the depth of friendship and the long-standing relations between Kuwait and Japan.
In her speech during the visit, Dr. Al-Huwailah said the presence of the Tokyo Governor “in her second country, the State of Kuwait,” embodies the shared desire to strengthen developmental, humanitarian, and cultural partnerships and elevate them to broader horizons.
She expressed appreciation for the Governor’s visit, wishing Koike and her accompanying delegation a pleasant stay and continued success in their efforts to enhance bilateral relations and deepen understanding between the two friendly peoples.
For her part, Governor Yuriko Koike said she is proud to meet social work leaders in Kuwait and thanked Minister Al-Huwailah for her warm reception. She stressed that the meeting reflects the deep friendship and cooperation between Japan and Kuwait, reportsn Al-Rai daily.
Koike praised the mission of the Women’s Cultural and Social Association and its contributions to elevating the status of women and strengthening their cultural and social roles. She noted that empowering women remains a cornerstone of comprehensive development and prosperity.
“I am confident,” she said, “that expanding women’s participation in positions of influence and decision-making enriches society and accelerates the pace of progress.”
Koike highlighted the positive strides Japan has made in promoting women’s leadership, adding that the coming years will see greater participation of women in the fields of economy, governance, and innovation.
She emphasized that cooperation between Kuwait and Japan in women’s empowerment, education, and culture represents “a practical bridge translating shared values into tangible initiatives that make a difference.”
The Governor expressed hope for deeper exchanges of experience and joint programs between women’s organizations in both countries to build the capacities of young generations and strengthen cultural understanding.
Meanwhile, Dr. Manal Al-Daihani, Chairperson of the Women’s Cultural and Social Association, said the visit reflects the historical depth of Kuwait–Japan relations, founded on mutual respect and shared development goals.
She praised the efforts of the Minister of Social Affairs and the Japanese Ambassador in advancing women’s empowerment, describing Koike’s visit as “a source of pride and an opportunity to strengthen partnerships that build more empowered and prosperous societies.”
Al-Daihani also lauded Japan’s achievements in innovation, governance, and women’s leadership as an inspiring model, congratulating the country on the appointment of Sanae Takaichi as Prime Minister — “a historic achievement that promotes gender equality.”
She added that Governor Koike’s career represents a global model of leadership and a source of inspiration for women worldwide.
During the event, Dr. Noura Shuaibi, Head of the Center for Women’s Studies and Research at Kuwait University, outlined the center’s role in supporting and empowering Kuwaiti women through education, leadership, entrepreneurship, and decision-making initiatives.
Dr. Shuaibi emphasized that the center seeks to strengthen academic and community partnerships to develop the capabilities of Kuwaiti women and prepare them to contribute effectively to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
