There is no doubt that Kuwait’s delay in joining the Gulf ranks was largely the result of deliberate obstruction by members of previous National Assemblies. During the past two decades, parliamentary representatives repeatedly obstructed major development projects and legislation, often driven by personal interests, as if Kuwait’s future were tied to their individual gains.

Today, with the dawn of a new era and notable progress in various sectors, the opportunity to establish strong partnerships with Gulf Cooperation Council countries, as a prelude to opening up to the world, has become more attainable. Kuwait possesses substantial capabilities that have long remained underutilized, and now is the time to activate them. This, without a doubt, requires a solid foundation for investment, and Saudi Arabia, a powerhouse in the region, offers vast opportunities that could serve as a major launchpad for revitalizing relations with neighboring states. This is especially true given that, over the past ten years, since King Salman bin Abdulaziz assumed power, the remarkable leadership of Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman has propelled the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the forefront of global attention, particularly through the ambitious projects of Vision 2030, the results of which are now beginning to materialize. In this context, the visit by His Highness the Prime Minister was a strategic investment in every sense, signaling a fresh chapter in areas vital to both Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. It comes at a time when Kuwait is positioning itself as a Gulf investment engine, actively working to diversify its sources of income and enhance its gross domestic product, which necessitates strong partnerships with the surrounding region first, and the world second.

Undoubtedly, the role of the private sector in both countries will be a cornerstone in this effort, serving to deepen ties between the two peoples and reinforce the principle of cooperation for integration as outlined in the Charter of the Gulf Cooperation Council. In a world undergoing many changes, especially in terms of economic shifts, and in a region as sensitive as ours, strengthening cooperation and integration among GCC countries remains the foremost line of defense for this closely connected and homogeneous group in terms of language, culture, and economic interests.

Hence, the visit of His Highness Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah to NEOM, which is now a global hub for investors, also reflects the deep-rooted and intimate relationship between the two countries and their peoples. We say to the leaders behind this visit, while the United States may be the engine of the global train, let us strengthen the movement of communication and partnership between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the State of Kuwait.