KUWAIT CITY, Feb 13:  On Wednesday, Deputy Foreign Minister Ambassador Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah reaffirmed Kuwait's commitment to enhancing its strategic relations with China across all sectors. The goal is to fulfill the aspirations of both countries' leaderships and peoples while contributing to regional and global security, stability, prosperity, and development.

Sheikh Jarrah's remarks were made during a speech at the Chinese Embassy in Kuwait, held to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the historic visit of the late Amir Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to China in 1965.

In his speech, Sheikh Jarrah noted that the late Amir's visit, while serving as Minister of Finance, Trade, and Industry at the time, was a pivotal moment for Kuwaiti-Chinese relations. He likened the visit to the famous Chinese proverb: "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." This visit marked the "first step" in establishing diplomatic ties between the two nations, which were officially formed in 1971 with the exchange of embassies. Sheikh Jarrah pointed out that Kuwait became the first Gulf Arab state to establish such ties, effectively becoming China's gateway to the Gulf region.

The Deputy Foreign Minister emphasized that this visit laid the foundation for what has since become a long-lasting and evolving partnership between the two nations. The relationship has grown over the decades, thanks to the persistent efforts of both Kuwaiti and Chinese officials, despite the geographical distance. Sheikh Jarrah underscored that this relationship has transcended formal diplomacy, becoming a true friendship built on shared values such as mutual respect, fruitful cooperation, and a common drive for development and prosperity. These values align with the principles outlined in the United Nations Charter and international law, setting an example for how countries can engage constructively.

The Deputy Foreign Minister also recalled the successful visits by His Highness the late Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to Beijing in 2018, and more recently, the historic visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to China in September 2023. These visits marked a major milestone in strengthening bilateral relations, opening a new chapter in the story of Kuwaiti-Chinese cooperation, and showcasing a "promising and bright future" for both nations.

Sheikh Jarrah affirmed that the relationship between Kuwait and China has seen significant development across various sectors over the years, and he stressed the responsibility of both nations to build upon the strong foundations established by their leaders over the decades.

Ambassador Zhang Jianwei of the People's Republic of China echoed these sentiments, highlighting that the 1965 visit of the late Amir was the first by a high-ranking Kuwaiti official to China. He called it the cornerstone for establishing diplomatic relations between the two countries. Ambassador Jianwei emphasized that over the past six decades, the two countries have continually supported each other, nurturing a friendship based on mutual trust and partnership for common development.

He also acknowledged the growing strategic relationship, noting that China has become Kuwait's largest trading partner for 10 consecutive years. This is a result of successful practical cooperation, including Kuwait's opening of its second foreign investment office in Shanghai and China becoming the second largest source of foreign direct investment in Kuwait. Additionally, he pointed out the completion of major projects undertaken by Chinese companies, such as the new headquarters of the Central Bank of Kuwait and the university city, which have further strengthened the ties between the two nations.

Ambassador Zhang concluded by expressing confidence that, through ongoing mutual visits and long-term cooperation, Kuwait and China will continue to elevate their relationship to even greater heights.