UK’s Deputy PM David Lammy Calls Kuwait Key Partner in Regional Stability

KUWAIT CITY, Apr 16: UK Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Justice, Lord Chancellor David Lammy, has described Kuwait as a “reliable partner” and a key contributor to regional stability, highlighting the depth of long-standing defence and strategic ties between the two countries.

In a statement to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) during his official visit to Kuwait, Lammy said the relationship between Kuwait and the United Kingdom is “not a product of current circumstances,” stressing that military cooperation remains at the core of bilateral relations built over decades.

He said his visit comes at a critical time for Kuwait and the wider Gulf region, noting that discussions with senior Kuwaiti officials, including the Prime Minister, focused on strengthening cooperation and addressing shared regional challenges. Lammy said the visit is part of a wider regional tour aimed at reinforcing the UK’s partnerships with Gulf allies.

The British Deputy Prime Minister praised the role of joint defence systems, noting that the “Rapid Sentry” system has contributed significantly to intercepting missile threats and preventing potential human and material losses. He said the partnership between the two countries extends beyond periods of stability and becomes even more important during times of crisis.

During his visit, Lammy also met members of the Royal Air Force Air Wing stationed in Kuwait, where he witnessed what he described as a high level of integration between British and Kuwaiti forces built over decades of cooperation. He reaffirmed the UK’s continued commitment to supporting Kuwait’s security and stability.

He further stressed the importance of advancing cooperation in modern defence technologies, particularly in response to the growing role of drones and evolving warfare systems in global conflicts, indicating that both countries are expected to deepen collaboration in this field in the coming period.

On regional developments, Lammy welcomed the recent ceasefire, calling for its continuation and emphasizing the need to pursue lasting peace through negotiations. He also highlighted the importance of restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, saying it would help revive trade flows and support global economic stability.

Lammy added that once de-escalation is sustained, the UK and Kuwait would work to further strengthen and expand their strategic partnership in line with technological advancements and emerging security challenges.

The British official also met the UK military mission in Kuwait, which has been operating since 1992 in training and advisory roles to enhance the capabilities of the Kuwaiti Armed Forces, including ongoing support during current defence operations.

British Ambassador to Kuwait Qudsi Rashid said the visit reflects the UK’s commitment to its “deep-rooted and enduring” partnership with Kuwait, noting that both countries have stood “shoulder to shoulder” during recent regional tensions. He added that cooperation in defence and maritime security, particularly regarding the Strait of Hormuz, remains a key pillar of bilateral relations.

Lammy’s visit to Kuwait followed a stop in Oman as part of a broader Gulf tour aimed at reaffirming solidarity with regional partners amid ongoing tensions with Iran. This marks his second visit to Kuwait, following an earlier trip in July last year while serving as Foreign Secretary.