KUWAIT CITY, May 11: The British Embassy in Kuwait is pleased to announce the visit of Vice Admiral Edward Ahlgren OBE MA, Royal Navy, the United Kingdom’s Defence Senior Advisor for the Middle East and North Africa (DSAME), to the State of Kuwait on the 9th of May for 3 days.
During his visit, Vice Admiral Ahlgren held a series of high-level meetings with senior Kuwaiti officials to discuss the evolving regional situation, including the importance of maintaining the current ceasefire, regional security dynamics, and the critical role of the Strait of Hormuz in global maritime security.
Vice Admiral Ahlgren was received by His Excellency Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Minister of Foreign Affairs. Their discussions underscored the strength of the longstanding UK–Kuwait partnership and the shared commitment to regional stability, dialogue, and de-escalation.
In addition, Vice Admiral Ahlgren participated in a joint meeting with His Excellency Lieutenant General Khaled Saad Al-Shriaan, Chief of Staff of the Kuwait Armed Forces; H.E Sheikh Dr Abdullah Meshal Al-Sabah, Undersecretary Kuwait Ministry of Defence; Major General Saif Al-Hamlan, Commander of the Kuwait Naval Force; and Brigadier General Sheikh Khalifah Al-Sabah, Director of Armament & Procurement Authority; Brigadier General Raed Al-Sakran, Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations and Plans. The discussions focused on defence cooperation, maritime security, and the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation, particularly in and around the Strait of Hormuz.
A further meeting was held with Brigadier General Feras Al-Qattan, Commander of Kuwait Air Defence. Discussions covered air and missile defence cooperation, future capability development, and the significant contribution the UK team alongside other allies has made to the Defence of Kuwait. Vice Admiral Ahlgren was also shown the impressive new purpose built facilities for the Air Defence Operations Centre.
The visit reflects the deep and enduring defence relationship between the United Kingdom and the State of Kuwait. Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to promoting regional security, supporting stability, and working closely with international partners to address common challenges.
Vice Admiral Ahlgren said:
“It was a privilege to visit Kuwait and engage with such esteemed counterparts. The UK and Kuwait share a strong and trusted partnership, founded on mutual respect and a common interest in regional security. Our discussions have been constructive and forward-looking, particularly in addressing the current regional situation and ensuring the safety and security of vital maritime routes.”
Captain Neil Marriott (Royal Navy), UK Defence Attaché said:
“In light of the current situation, DSAME's visit reflects the strength and continuity of our longstanding relationship. The productive engagements throughout the visit reaffirmed our shared commitment to continued cooperation and closer collaboration moving forward.”
The British Embassy in Kuwait reiterates the United Kingdom’s continued support for efforts to maintain stability in the region and its commitment to working closely with Kuwait and partners across the Middle East and North Africa.
Qudsi Rasheed- British Ambassador to the State of Kuwait said
“The UK remains committed to supporting Kuwait’s security and defensive capabilities. The deployment of UK personnel, equipment and defensive assets reflects our long-standing defence partnership and our shared commitment to protecting Kuwait and all those who live here. During our visit with Vice Admiral Edward Ahlgren to Kuwait’s Air Defence Headquarters, we saw first-hand the professionalism and impressive capabilities of the Kuwaiti Armed Forces, as well as the close cooperation between British and Kuwaiti teams. Our partnership is focused not only on addressing current challenges, but also on supporting Kuwait’s long-term defence capabilities for the future.”
