KUWAIT CITY, Jan 18: Father Suleiman Haifawi, the official spokesperson for the Catholic Church in Kuwait, stated that Kuwait is witnessing a historic and exceptional moment with the arrival of His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of the Holy See, who is in Kuwait on an official and pastoral visit, reflecting the depth of the distinguished relations between Kuwait and the Holy See, reports Al-Seyassah daily. He explained that the historical ties between Kuwait and the Holy See date back to 1965, when Kuwait became the first Gulf state to establish formal diplomatic relations with the Vatican.

This was a pioneering step that reflected its early openness and its vision based on dialogue, respect for others, and the promotion of peace and coexistence. These relations have witnessed continuous development and constructive cooperation over the decades, culminating in reciprocal official visits, ongoing messages of appreciation, and shared humanitarian initiatives, all of which affirm the special place Kuwait holds in the eyes of the Holy See. Father Haifawi went on to explain that the visit of the Secretary of State of the Holy See and the official representative of His Holiness the Pope, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, coincided with a highly significant historical event, which is the elevation of Our Lady of Arabia Parish in Ahmadi to the rank and dignity of a “Minor Basilica” on Friday, January 16. This unprecedented official and spiritual celebration strengthens the position of the Catholic Church in Kuwait.

The Mass was attended by priests, monks, nuns, and clergy from various faiths and denominations, as well as official representatives from the State of Kuwait, diplomats, and distinguished guests from Kuwait and abroad. Our Lady of Arabia Church, which is located within the compound of the Kuwait Oil Company in Ahmadi, is a historic church built in 1955. Since its establishment, the church has served as a prominent spiritual and humanitarian landmark, a gathering place for Christian believers - both Kuwaiti citizens and residents of various nationalities - and a center for Christian witness based on service, commitment, and coexistence within Kuwaiti society. Father Haifawi revealed that granting the church the title of “Minor Basilica” is a high ecclesiastical honor awarded globally to churches distinguished by their spiritual, historical, and liturgical significance, reflecting their direct connection to the Holy See. He indicated that this allows the church to use certain papal symbols and celebrate special liturgical occasions, serving as a living sign of communion with the Pope within the universal Church.

Father Suleiman Haifawi, the official spokesperson for the Catholic Church in Kuwait

Father Haifawi emphasized that the elevation of Our Lady of Arabia Parish to Minor Basilica is a historic, cultural, and humanitarian milestone, highlighting Kuwait’s image as a land of dialogue, tolerance, respect for freedom of worship, and embrace of religious and cultural diversity, guided by wise leadership and a humanitarian vision. On this occasion, he said, “We extend our deepest respect and appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of Kuwait, and to His Highness Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al- Hamad Al-Sabah, the Crown Prince (May God protect them both), as well as to the State of Kuwait, its leadership, government, and people, for their support, care, openness, and mutual respect. We pray that Kuwait remains an oasis of peace and security, a source of goodness, and a bridge of convergence between peoples and cultures. The visit of the official representative of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of the Holy See, carries a special apostolic greeting to the State of Kuwait and its leadership. The Holy See highly values the humanitarian and cultural role of the State of Kuwait in preserving the honorable history between the Gulf States and the Church.”