UK, Kuwait to boost cooperation amid global crises and regional security challenges
UK-Kuwait cooperation extends globally, including contributions to resolving crises in Sudan, Somalia, and Yemen — countries grappling with instability and health emergencies – Lammy
The United Kingdom’s Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, David Lammy, affirmed on Sunday that the UK is seeking to strengthen its cooperation with Kuwait across a range of sectors, including trade, investment, business, security, and defense—especially in light of the escalating global security challenges, particularly in the Middle East.
Speaking to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on the sidelines of his official visit at the Saud Al-Nasser Al-Sabah Diplomatic Institute, Lammy emphasized that British-Kuwaiti relations are historic and deeply rooted, built on over a century of friendship dating back to the signing of the 1899 agreement.
He noted that ties between the two nations extend beyond diplomacy, encompassing strong cultural, educational, and defense partnerships, adding that 10,000 Kuwaiti students currently enrolled in UK universities reflect the depth and future potential of this relationship. Lammy also highlighted the enduring bond between the two royal families as a testament to this closeness.
Lammy’s visit coincides with the second round of the Kuwait-UK Strategic Dialogue, which aims to chart a new course for future bilateral cooperation. He described the UK as holding a key economic position in Europe, while recognizing Kuwait’s influential role in the Gulf and wider Middle East—an alignment he believes can lead to major joint achievements.
The Foreign Secretary also addressed shared humanitarian concerns, emphasizing both nations’ commitment to alleviating suffering in Gaza, supporting ceasefire efforts, and continuing joint humanitarian initiatives.
Beyond the region, Lammy said, the UK-Kuwait cooperation extends globally, including contributions to resolving crises in Sudan, Somalia, and Yemen — countries grappling with instability and health emergencies.
He welcomed the signing of new memoranda of understanding, which aim to align both countries’ development strategies and resources, benefiting vulnerable groups such as women and children worldwide.
Lammy also discussed the UK’s recently launched industrial strategy, which sets priorities for government investment. He identified defense, space, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, life sciences, and sustainable energy as promising areas for UK-Kuwaiti collaboration, offering mutual benefits to both economies.
