KUWAIT CITY, Mar 12: On Tuesday, March 11, the British Embassy hosted its annual Ramadan Ghabga, a celebration that highlighted the achievements of distinguished female business leaders. The event, held just three days after International Women’s Day on March 8, underscored the significant contributions of women to both local society and the 250-year-old trading partnership between the UK and Kuwait. Many of these accomplished women were in attendance at the gathering.

Naz Demir, Country Director at the Department for Business and Trade, addressed the audience, stating, “Tonight, we celebrate past, present, and future female business leaders and their profound impact on the UK and Kuwait's trade relationship, which now stands at a record £6.2 billion annually. Events like this reinforce our shared commitment to empowering the next generation of female leaders and further strengthening the special bond between our two nations.”

Her Excellency Belinda Lewis, His Majesty’s Ambassador to the State of Kuwait, explained the rationale behind this year’s theme. “This Ghabga not only celebrates the holy month of Ramadan but also honors the invaluable contributions of female business leaders to the longstanding trading partnership between the UK and Kuwait, especially in light of the recent International Women’s Day,” she said.

Ambassador Lewis added, “The UK is dedicated to collaborating with its partners, including Kuwait, to foster a business environment where innovation and hard work are rewarded, and individuals can succeed regardless of their gender. In line with this commitment, Foreign Secretary David Lammy has appointed former Minister and Deputy Leader of the Labour Party, Baroness Harriet Harman KC, as the new UK Special Envoy for Women and Girls. She will champion these efforts on the global stage.”

The event served as a testament to the enduring partnership between the UK and Kuwait, while also shining a spotlight on the pivotal role women play in driving economic growth and strengthening international ties.