Swiss President highlights deep friendship and expanding cooperation with Kuwait

By Rabih Kallas
Special to The Times Kuwait

President of Switzerland Guy Parmelin underscored the depth of Swiss–Kuwaiti relations during his official visit to Kuwait, marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

He described the relationship as one built on sincere friendship, shared values, and a common commitment to dialogue, peace and humanitarian principles.

President Parmelin said he is honored to meet His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Mishal Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, noting that the visit not only celebrates historical ties but also looks toward a future of stronger cooperation.

He highlighted that interpersonal and trade links between the two nations date back to the 1930s, with Kuwait being the first Gulf country to establish people-to-people relations with Switzerland.

The Swiss leader pointed out that generations of Kuwaiti families have visited, studied, lived and invested in Switzerland, particularly in the Canton of Vaud.

He welcomed the expansion of air connectivity, noting that Kuwait Airways is set to operate three direct weekly flights to Zurich, in addition to existing services to Geneva, as a positive sign for future engagement.

On the economic front, Parmelin described Kuwait as an important market for Swiss companies since the 1970s, while also acknowledging significant Kuwaiti investments in Switzerland.

He emphasized that bilateral agreements on investment protection, double taxation and free trade provide a solid legal framework for businesses in both countries.

He cited the establishment of the Swiss Kuwaiti Business Platform in 2023 as a key development, and noted that his visit coincides with Swiss Kuwaiti Business Days, which brought a delegation of Swiss firms from various sectors to Kuwait.
Cultural and educational exchanges also feature prominently in the bilateral relationship.

The Swiss embassy in Kuwait, he said, plays an active role in promoting cultural diplomacy by hosting events such as Swiss film screenings and culinary evenings. It also supports tourism promotion and provides information about Swiss schools, universities and summer educational programs for young Kuwaitis.

Addressing broader regional dynamics, Parmelin acknowledged that global uncertainty and geopolitical instability pose challenges to international cooperation.

He stressed that such circumstances make it even more important for countries like Switzerland and Kuwait to strengthen ties and focus on shared interests. He described the Gulf region as an increasingly influential actor on the global stage and confirmed Switzerland’s intention to deepen its engagement with the region.

In this context, he praised Kuwait’s role as a constructive and balanced partner in a complex geopolitical environment.

According to Parmelin, Kuwait’s commitment to peace and dialogue mirrors Switzerland’s own approach, making it a valued friend and partner.

He also welcomed Kuwait’s ability to maintain positive relations with a wide range of international actors.
The Swiss president further referred to the launch of the “Future of Investment and Trade Partnership,” an initiative involving Switzerland and 15 other countries from different continents.

The platform aims to support small and medium-sized, trade-dependent nations in addressing challenges arising from growing protectionism and geopolitical tensions. Parmelin noted that the initiative could be highly relevant for Kuwait and the wider Gulf region as global trade conditions become increasingly uncertain.