‘US committed to Kuwait’s security, stability’

KUWAIT CITY, Oct 20: Charge d’Affaires at the US Embassy in Kuwait Steven Butler on Tuesday reaffirmed his country’s unwavering commitment to Kuwait’s security, sovereignty and stability. Butler made his press remarks on the sidelines of the US Embassy’s celebration marking America’s semiquincentennial and the 65th anniversary of the founding of diplomatic relations with the State of Kuwait.

The celebration was attended by Kuwaiti Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, chiefs of diplomatic missions in Kuwait, representatives of American companies, and officials from various sectors. The US diplomat underscored the depth of the historical relations between the two friendly countries, saying that their partnership serves as a model of firm friendship that has withstood challenges over many decades.

Butler elaborated that this relationship is not restricted to the 65 years since both countries forged their diplomatic ties in 1961; rather, it dates to 1911 when the American Hospital was established in Kuwait, marking an early milestone in the people-to-people relationship. He added that Kuwaitis and Americans share deep historical and human bonds that preceded the founding of formal diplomatic relations, and that have helped build a partnership based on trust, mutual respect and common interests. Recalling historical positions that reflected US-Kuwaiti bonds, he cited American support for Kuwait during the heinous Iraqi invasion of the country in 1990 and its leadership of the international coalition that contributed to the liberation of the State of Kuwait in 1991. He also reiterated both sides’ unity in the face of regional security challenges, driven by a shared commitment to protecting the sovereignty of Kuwait, safeguarding its people and ensuring regional security.

In this regard, the US diplomat cited recent regional security challenges, including a temporary evacuation of some US Embassy staff, prior to the resumption of normal operations. He added that the recent visit by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Kuwait and his meetings with His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al- Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and senior Kuwaiti officials, as a sign of Washington’s renewed commitment towards Kuwait. He noted that the US Embassy’s celebration highlights the significant presence of American companies and brands in Kuwait, as well as their vital role in strengthening bilateral economic and cultural ties. He concluded by underscoring that the event marking America’s semi quincentennial and the 65th anniversary of the founding of the US and Kuwait diplomatic relations, showed the significance of maintaining the common historical heritage and building on it to promote cooperation and partnership between both countries in the coming stage. (KUNA)