WASHINGTON, March 27: Kuwaiti Ambassador to the US, Sheikha Al-Zain Al-Sabah, met with US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick on Wednesday to discuss the long-standing bilateral relations between the two nations, with a particular focus on economic cooperation.

In a statement to KUNA, the Kuwaiti Embassy highlighted the deep-rooted partnership between the US and Kuwait, which was solidified during the Gulf War. Sheikha Al-Zain emphasized the successful diplomatic efforts that led to the formation of an international coalition to liberate Kuwait in 1991. She noted the enduring impact of this historic moment on the Kuwaiti people and expressed profound gratitude to the US for its leadership and the bravery of its armed forces.

Secretary Lutnick reaffirmed the importance of the enduring ties between the two nations, recognizing the strength of the partnership that goes beyond military cooperation. Sheikha Al-Zain took the opportunity to underscore the pride both nations share in their shared history, particularly pointing to the success of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. She emphasized that these operations were not only victories of military precision and strategic cooperation, but also represented an innovative financial model funded by Kuwait and its allies, ensuring that the US and its taxpayers would not bear any financial burdens for the liberation of Kuwait.

Sheikha Al-Zain further pointed out that Kuwait's contributions covered all costs and even generated a significant financial surplus, highlighting the exceptional nature of this approach. She also noted the international cooperation that extended beyond the war, particularly in efforts to combat the devastating fires caused by the Gulf War's burning oil wells. She praised the efforts of Kuwaiti firefighters, engineers, and oil specialists, who worked tirelessly alongside international teams in one of the largest and most complex firefighting operations in history.

The ambassador emphasized that the swift mobilization of global efforts, combined with the expertise of leading American companies, played a key role in overcoming environmental and economic challenges. Secretary Lutnick commended Kuwait’s partnership with American firms in managing the oil fires, reflecting the strength of global cooperation.

On economic matters, Sheikha Al-Zain reaffirmed Kuwait's commitment to open-market policies that support business growth. She emphasized that Kuwait maintains one of the world’s lowest tariff rates at a fixed 5 percent for all trading partners, including both GCC countries and the US. Additionally, she highlighted that Kuwait does not impose protectionist tariffs on American products, and many goods, especially those imported for US military operations, are exempt under national laws and economic agreements. Secretary Lutnick welcomed these policies, acknowledging that Kuwait’s openness is crucial to strengthening future economic relations.

The ambassador also highlighted Kuwait’s significant economic presence in the US, which is represented by institutions such as the Kuwait Investment Authority, the Public Institution for Social Security, and the private sector. She noted that Kuwaiti institutions and private investors have made substantial and strategic investments in the US market, demonstrating Kuwait’s strong confidence in the long-term growth and stability of the American economy. Secretary Lutnick recognized the importance of these investments in further deepening the economic ties between the two nations.

The meeting concluded with Secretary Lutnick thanking Sheikha Al-Zain for the productive discussions and reaffirming his commitment to continuing to strengthen and expand US-Kuwait relations. In turn, Sheikha Al-Zain reiterated Kuwait's dedication to ensuring the continuity and prosperity of this historic partnership for future generations.