Japanese Embassy celebrates the 60th anniversary of relations with Kuwait

Staff Report

The Japanese Embassy celebrated their 60th year of diplomatic ties with Kuwait during which the Japanese Ambassador, H.E Yasunari Morino, described bilateral relations between Japan and Kuwait as deeply historic.

In a recent media gathering at his residence, Morino stated, “Kuwait is considered the third-largest source of oil for us, so Japan appreciates Kuwait’s efforts in ensuring energy security. Japan is interested in cooperating with Kuwait in developing its infrastructure, including transitioning to new energy sources. I am confident that there is potential on both sides to achieve this, and there is an intention to increase cooperation between the two countries.”

Morino added that Japanese companies actively contribute to improving the quality of life for the Kuwaiti people, particularly in providing stable supplies of electricity and water. He highlighted a Japanese company’s involvement in Kuwait’s pioneering clean fuel project. Additionally, he expressed hope that Japanese firms would participate in developing Kuwait’s infrastructure through projects related to efficient transportation systems, waste management, and recycling technologies.

Regarding technology development, Morino emphasized the potential for Japan and Kuwait to collaborate in this area. Japan has advanced technologies in various fields and is rapidly undergoing digital transformation.

Both Japan and Kuwait have set carbon neutrality goals (2050 for Japan and 2060 for Kuwait, this underscores the importance of joint efforts between the two countries to reduce carbon footprints while ensuring stable oil supplies to meet global demand.

Ensuring maritime security, including in the Strait of Hormuz, is vital, not only for Japan but for the world as a whole. Japan seeks to contribute to peace by cooperating with regional nations and promoting an understanding of international law.

Ambassador Morino mentioned that Japan has dispatched naval vessels and patrol aircraft from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force to counter piracy off the coasts of Somalia and in the Gulf of Aden.

Regarding tourism, Morino revealed that his embassy issued between 300 to 400 visas per month, and the number of tourists were increasing, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. He added that Kuwaitis were showing increased interest in Japan. He disclosed that visas for Kuwaitis are normally issued within three days

He concluded by highlighting Japan’s commitment to deepening its relationship with Arab countries through the pillars of cooperation for prosperity, efforts towards peace, and fostering dialogue and practice for the maintenance and enhancement of the international order.