His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad cuts the ribbon at the opening of the 13th British Week in Kuwait

In a statement to reporters on the sidelines of the event, British Ambassador to Kuwait Qudsi Rasheed emphasized that the exhibition embodies the strength and depth of the partnership between the United Kingdom and Kuwait -- a partnership built on over a century of cooperation and continuing to evolve in ways that enhance prosperity, security and opportunities for both countries. He said the event serves as a platform for celebrating bilateral relations, indicating that Kuwaitis know Britain as well as the British themselves, which makes this type of event particularly valuable for both sides.

He revealed that the exhibition highlights the breadth of cooperation between the United Kingdom and Kuwait, ranging from trade and investment to education, culture, defense and emerging technologies. He added that British companies continue to offer their expertise, innovation, and worldclass capabilities in many priority sectors in Kuwait. He added, “Kuwaiti investors and institutions maintain a significant and valued presence in the dynamic and globally connected economy of the United Kingdom. Educational and cultural ties remain at the heart of this partnership, strengthening year aft er year, thanks to the many Kuwaiti students, their families, and visitors who choose the UK as their second home.”

On His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad’s patronage of the event, the ambassador explained that he is a distinguished figure, and he has been honored to meet him and benefit from his advice since his arrival in the country, expressing his delight that His Highness is the supporter of the exhibition. He praised the generous patronage of His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad for this event, which highlights not only past achievements but also the great potential of the future. About the number of participating companies, Rasheed stated that he did not have the exact figure but participation appeared broad and diverse, encompassing several sectors such as education, automotive, banking and others. He also commended the initiatives undertaken by Kuwaiti investors and businesspeople in strengthening relations between the two countries, affirming that the partnership between Kuwait and Britain contributes to the prosperity of both sides. He said Kuwaiti investors possess in-depth knowledge of the British market, both in terms of investment opportunities and bringing British brands to the local market, citing the success of various sectors like food and beverages, automotive and banking.

The Ambassador then extended his congratulations to the State of Kuwait on its National Day and Liberation Day celebrations, congratulating His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al- Sabah and the government. He also mentioned his participation in the flag-raising ceremony with the governor of the Capital Governorate, describing it as a special moment, as it was his first national celebration since assuming his post. He expressed his anticipation of participating in the remaining events in the coming period.

Meanwhile, Chairman of the Organizing Committee Ahmed Ismail Behbehani said, “His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad’s patronage of the event underscores the depth and history of Kuwaiti-British relations and His Highness’ keenness to support events and activities that strengthen these historical ties with Britain.” He pointed out that Kuwaiti-British relations represent a distinguished model of relations built on solid foundations, based on a historical friendship that began more than 250 years ago when the British East India Company rerouted mail through Kuwait.

He said this historical depth was further solidified when HH the late Sheikh Mubarak Al-Sabah signed the Kuwaiti-British Treaty in 1899, which affirmed Kuwait’s independent decision-making and distanced it from major international conflicts. He indicated that these distinguished relations have continued and strengthened in political, economic, military and cultural fields. He stated that the visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad to the United Kingdom in January 2025 confirmed the depth of the historical and strategic relations and the strength of the firmly established ties between Kuwait and the United Kingdom.

“It also reflected the special relationship between the ruling family of Kuwait and the royal family of the United Kingdom,” he asserted. He added the 13th British Week in Kuwait is exceptional as it coincides with the celebration of the 65th Independence Day and 35th Liberation Day of Kuwait, making it a special occasion for all participants in the event.