KUWAIT CITY, Dec 23: The Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Kuwait, Qudsi Rasheed, has described his posting in Kuwait as more than just a diplomatic assignment, calling it a place close to his heart. From his first days in the country, he experienced a warm welcome and genuine human connection, making his transition smoother and faster than in any other nation where he has previously served. Speaking in a television interview on the “Good Morning Kuwait” program on Channel 2, the ambassador shared his personal experiences while also emphasizing the long-standing historical ties between Kuwait and the United Kingdom. He noted that 2024 has been designated the Year of Kuwaiti-British Partnership, a celebration of over a century of cooperation in political, economic, defense, cultural, and educational fields.

Ambassador Rasheed also highlighted significant Kuwaiti investments in Britain and the presence of thousands of Kuwaiti students pursuing higher education in British universities. He reflected on the moment he presented his credentials to His Highness the Amir, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad, describing it as a significant milestone both personally and professionally, especially as it coincided with the second anniversary of His Highness’s accession to power Ambassador Rasheed noted that the reception ceremony, with its display of national flags and the playing of the national anthems, brought back memories of his late father and evoked reflections on his own professional journey, along with feelings of pride and gratitude. Emphasizing that Kuwaiti-British relations are “very special,” with roots extending back decades, he highlighted the deep mutual understanding between the two peoples, nurtured through continuous travel, study, and residence in both countries.

He described this relationship as one that is based on a strong understanding that goes beyond politics, encompassing culture and society as well. Regarding his integration into Kuwaiti society, the ambassador highlighted that the diwaniya culture had left a strong impression on him. He described it as an open space for discussion and the exchange of opinions among various segments of society, likening it to a “mini-parliament” where both local and global issues are debated. Ambassador Rashid revealed that he had visited several diwaniyas, chalets, residential areas, and Souk Mubarakiya, which helped him gain firsthand insight into daily life in Kuwait. He noted the Kuwaiti public’s keen interest in English football, particularly the Premier League, and the immense popularity of clubs such as Liverpool, Manchester United, and Manchester City, revealing that he is an Arsenal fan.

The ambassador highlighted the global reputation of British universities, which continue to attract a growing number of Kuwaiti students. Regarding the British Embassy’s activities, Ambassador Rasheed ex-plained that several events had been organized recently, including a celebration of His Majesty King Charles III’s birthday, as well as initiatives addressing trade, combating violence against women, and supporting children with disabilities, all aimed at strengthening the shared values between the two countries. He emphasized that cultural understanding forms the foundation of any successful diplomatic relationship, noting that while politics and economics are important, culture remains the cornerstone of long-term cooperation.

In conclusion, Ambassador Rasheed expressed his admiration for Kuwaiti cuisine, highlighting the similarities between some Kuwaiti and Indian dishes such as Ma’booj, Majboos, Jareesh, and Harees. He indicated that food was one of the aspects he enjoyed most during his stay in Kuwait, and he thanked the Kuwaiti people for their warm welcome. Ambassador Rasheed expressed his hope to meet as many citizens as possible in diwaniyas and at social and sporting events in the coming period.

By Fares Ghaleb Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff