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Thursday, January 16, 2025
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UK Ambassador Lauds Amir’s Gesture as a Symbol of Lasting Friendship

publish time

16/01/2025

publish time

16/01/2025

UK Ambassador Lauds Amir’s Gesture as a Symbol of Lasting Friendship
The British Ambassador to Kuwait, Belinda Lewis

KUWAIT CITY, Jan 16: The British Ambassador to Kuwait, Belinda Lewis, expressed her delight on Thursday at the symbolic gesture by His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, who selected a tree to be planted in the gardens of Dumfries House in Ayrshire, Scotland. According to Ambassador Lewis, the tree represents the "enduring and growing friendship" between the United Kingdom and the State of Kuwait.

This gesture occurred during the Amir's visit on Wednesday morning to the King’s Foundation at Dumfries House, accompanied by an official delegation. The visit aimed to explore the educational and cultural initiatives spearheaded by the foundation.

Ambassador Lewis highlighted the significance of Dumfries House, a historic site that serves as a center for promoting traditional skills and crafts, heritage preservation, and sustainability. She noted that the house is an ideal venue for mutual educational exchanges, which are strongly supported by His Highness the Amir.

"Dumfries House offers opportunities for both residents and international participants to develop traditional and heritage skills, while also focusing on environmentally friendly activities such as sustainable food production and the conservation of rare plant and fruit species across Scotland," Ambassador Lewis remarked.

She emphasized that His Highness Amir's visit aligns with his commitment to supporting such initiatives, adding, "His Highness has read about and supported these projects and has taken the opportunity to witness them personally."

Amir Tours Dumfries House Facilities During the visit, His Highness Sheikh Meshal toured the facilities and educational centers at Dumfries House. The Amir and his delegation were briefed on the various projects and programs hosted at the site, which emphasize sustainability, cultural heritage, and vocational training.

About Dumfries House Built in the 18th century, Dumfries House is an iconic Scottish architectural landmark spanning over 20,000 square meters. Constructed between 1754 and 1759, the estate served as a family residence until 1993 before being placed under the care of The Great Steward of Scotland Dumfries House Foundation. Since 2018, The Prince’s Foundation has managed and developed the site, transforming it into a hub for cultural and educational activities.

Today, Dumfries House is a renowned Scottish Heritage Site, offering opportunities for children and young adults to learn traditional crafts like carpentry and weaving while promoting sustainability, renewable energy, and environmental conservation.

The King's Foundation maintains Dumfries House as a tourist destination and a center for educational engagement. Notable programs include the Prince's Foundation School of Traditional Arts and various initiatives aimed at fostering awareness of organic farming and environmental stewardship among younger generations.

The visit of His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to Dumfries House highlights the deep and collaborative ties between Kuwait and the United Kingdom, further reinforcing their commitment to mutual cultural and educational exchange.