KUWAIT CITY, Oct 26: His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah affirmed on Saturday that Kuwait has long dedicated special attention to its foreign relations, which have reached unprecedented heights under the leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.

Speaking at a reception hosted by the Swiss Embassy in Kuwait to mark the inauguration of its new headquarters in Qadisiya, Sheikh Nasser was joined by Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis, Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah Al-Yahya, and Swiss Ambassador to Kuwait Dr. Tiziano Balmelli. The event underscored the growing diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations.

In his address, delivered in French, Sheikh Nasser highlighted that since Kuwait's independence, the country has placed a strong emphasis on cultivating foreign relations, particularly with nations that hold prominent positions in the global order. Under the patronage of His Highness the Amir, he said, these relations have reached a peak, with Kuwait actively extending its influence to both Eastern and Western nations.

Sheikh Nasser praised His Highness the Amir's leadership during a particularly delicate time in the region's history, noting his efforts to foster cooperation with friendly countries across the globe. He also emphasized the Amir's commitment to strengthening Kuwaiti-Swiss relations, which have evolved significantly since the two nations established diplomatic ties in 1966.

Recalling his own personal connection to Switzerland, Sheikh Nasser reflected on his early diplomatic career, which included his appointment as Kuwait’s Consul General to the Swiss Confederation in Geneva in 1966. He served in this capacity for two years before being assigned to Tehran as Kuwait’s Ambassador to Iran. He also shared his deep fondness for Switzerland, where he had studied from 1959, noting his admiration for the country's spirit of order, perseverance, and excellence.

Sheikh Nasser recalled that in 1966, Kuwait became the second Gulf state to establish diplomatic relations with Switzerland, a partnership that matured over the decades. The Swiss Embassy in Kuwait opened in 1975, and in 2006, when Sheikh Nasser served as Prime Minister, Kuwait opened its own embassy in Bern.

In his speech, Sheikh Nasser emphasized that Switzerland is not merely a global hub for wealth management and investments but represents a model of independence and excellence, despite its small geographical size. He described Switzerland as a trusted mediator in regional and international issues, thanks to its long-standing tradition of neutrality. Switzerland’s diplomatic role, he said, has made it a preferred partner for Gulf states when seeking neutral mediation or unofficial communication channels.

Since the end of World War II, Switzerland has played a pivotal role in over 200 cases of interest protection, representing more than 70 countries. Its role as a diplomatic mediator has earned Switzerland a reputation as a "global protective state," especially in dealing with regional crises such as those in Yemen, Syria, and Iran, which have been hosted in Geneva.

The presence of key international organizations in Switzerland, particularly in Geneva, allows for direct communication between diplomats and the UN system, with Swiss legal and financial institutions serving as global references in areas like financial legislation, arbitration, and the fight against corruption.

Sheikh Nasser also praised Switzerland’s leadership in humanitarian initiatives, especially through the International Committee of the Red Cross, and noted the country’s significant contributions to medical tourism, attracting visitors from the Gulf region. He pointed out that many Kuwaitis have even acquired property in Switzerland, drawn by the country's high standards of living and tranquility.

Lauding Switzerland's balanced and neutral approach to international diplomacy, Sheikh Nasser underscored that the Swiss model of diplomacy—fostering dialogue and cooperation without aligning with conflicting political axes—serves as an inspiration for decision-makers worldwide.

The strong and developing ties between Kuwait and Switzerland were highlighted through several high-level exchanges of visits. Sheikh Nasser specifically referenced a meeting between His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and former Swiss President Viola Amherd during the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Kuwait, he stressed, will remain committed to its longstanding relationship with Switzerland, which is grounded in mutual trust and shared interests. He also expressed deep gratitude for Switzerland’s unwavering support during Kuwait’s difficult moments, particularly during the 1990 Iraqi invasion, when Switzerland offered humanitarian assistance and allowed Kuwaiti citizens to stay in the country.

Earlier in the day, Sheikh Nasser received Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis at Shuwaikh Palace, where he hosted a luncheon in honor of the visiting minister and his delegation.

His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad with Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis

His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad with Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis

Cake-cutting ceremony as part of the celebration marking the opening of the new embassy.