KUWAIT CITY, May 4: Kuwait and China have reaffirmed their commitment to accelerating the implementation of the strategic Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port project on Boubyan Island in northern Kuwait, emphasizing its importance as a regional trade hub and a key driver of comprehensive development.

This shared commitment was clearly demonstrated following the signing of the project contract in March, with both nations expressing firm determination to enhance bilateral cooperation and fast-track the port’s execution.

The recently concluded fifth round of political consultations between Kuwait and China resulted in expanded channels of dialogue, aimed at broadening consensus and advancing shared goals. Discussions focused on reviewing the status of bilateral agreements and memoranda of understanding, especially those related to major development projects — foremost among them, the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port.

Chinese Ambassador to Kuwait Zhang Jianwei stated that China is actively working with Kuwait to push forward the port’s development, describing the project as a significant initiative for both Kuwait’s strategic infrastructure and Sino-Kuwaiti cooperation. His comments came during celebrations marking World Chinese Language Day.

Ambassador Zhang also praised the recent inspection visit to the project site by Chinese Vice Minister of Transport Fu Xueyin, calling it a vital step in ensuring the project’s continuity. He highlighted the outcomes of a meeting between Kuwait’s Minister of Public Works, Dr. Noura Al-Mashaan, and the Chinese delegation, during which both sides agreed to expedite the project’s implementation.

The Kuwaiti government has repeatedly underscored the strategic priority it places on the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port, viewing it as integral to Kuwait’s national development plan, which aims to diversify the economy, boost GDP, and restore the country’s regional economic prominence.

This commitment materialized through intensive consultations and efforts that led to the signing of a contract in February 2025 with China State Construction and Transport Limited. The contract covers study, design, and pre-implementation services required to advance the project.

Following the agreement, Minister Al-Mashaan affirmed that completing the port is a top priority for Kuwait’s political leadership, under the guidance of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, with strong support from His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah.

The minister noted the growing effectiveness of strategic communication between Kuwait and China, stressing the importance of strengthening and sustaining practical cooperation.

Since the signing of the project contract in March, Kuwaiti and Chinese officials have conducted multiple inspection tours of the site to monitor progress and accelerate construction efforts.

The Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port is a cornerstone of Kuwait’s long-term development vision to establish the nation as a regional and global hub for trade and economic activity.

In January 2025, the Kuwaiti Cabinet approved the selection of China State Construction and Transport Limited to implement, manage, and operate the port through all phases. This decision followed the issuance of Decree-Law No. 155 of 2024, endorsing the memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Kuwait and China on port development cooperation.

The MoU aims to establish the port as a new focal point for East-West trade and reflects the broader development partnership between Kuwait and China, in alignment with the Belt and Road Initiative.