Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef meets Ahmed Al-Jarallah, Dean of Kuwaiti Journalism and Editor-in-Chief of Al-Seyassah and Arab Times, along with other editors-in-chief of Kuwaiti daily newspapers and the president of KJA, with Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi in attendance.

KUWAIT CITY, Aug 26: At the initiative of Dean of Kuwaiti journalism and Editor-in-Chief of Al-Seyassah and Arab Times newspapers Ahmed Al-Jarallah and the Kuwait Journalists Association (KJA), First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah on Tuesday met with the editors-in-chief of Kuwaiti daily newspapers and the president of KJA, with Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi in attendance. They discussed a number of issues and various topics of mutual interest.

During the meeting, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef reviewed the efforts exerted by the Ministry of Interior to strengthen the security system and maintain social stability in line with the directives of the political leadership. He affirmed that security is the cornerstone of the development process. The meeting tackled the issue of national identity and its importance in consolidating a sense of belonging and promoting the values of citizenship. It confirmed the commitment of the State to support all efforts to preserve national identity in various media, cultural and societal fields, as well as that of the Grievance Committee for the Withdrawal, Revocation and Loss of Kuwaiti Citizenship to fulfill its role with complete transparency, clarity and flexibility in handling the cases presented to it, in accordance with the regulations and systems, while ensuring the protection of rights and the achievement of justice. The importance of partnership between the media and State institutions in addressing national issues was emphasized, as well as the role of the Kuwaiti media, as it has been and continues to be a key partner in highlighting national successes and raising public awareness.

The editors-in-chief discussed policies and procedures related to visas, regulating the entry of visitors, and residency for foreigners. Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef revealed that work is underway to develop modern systems, which strike a balance between facilitating access for investors and visitors, and safeguarding national interests and community security requirements. He clarified that the reopening of the visit visa is subject to close daily monitoring of all visitors and their behavior to ensure full compliance with the rules and regulations. He said the necessary action will be taken in the event of any violation. He stressed that this step aims to stimulate the economy, boost tourism, and attract foreign investment, thus strengthening Kuwait’s position as a hub for investors and businesspersons

He also addressed the drug issue, indicating that the Ministry of Interior has laid down a systematic plan to dry up the sources of drugs inside and outside the country through continuous coordination with friendly countries. He disclosed that the recent visits to Syria and Lebanon resulted in robust plans to dry up the sources of drugs and the large daily seizures. He pointed out that this reflects the government’s commitment to combat drugs through coordinated efforts, including combating drug smuggling and trafficking, establishing addiction treatment centers, and raising public awareness about drug prevention.

He stated that smuggling operations by sea have almost completely disappeared, thanks to the new radar security system and unmanned boats equipped with advanced systems to detect maritime smuggling attempts. He affirmed the comprehensive government efforts, involving all concerned agencies, to combat this dangerous scourge and protect society from it. The meeting concluded with the expression of gratitude to Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, stressing the importance of continuing such periodic meetings between government leaders and local media outlets, as they represent a platform for dialogue and exchange of views that serve the national interest and enhance the media’s role in social responsibility.