Taxi Driver

During a visit to one of Kuwait’s neighboring countries, I hailed a taxi, and the driver, who was Black, asked me, “Which country are you from?” I replied, “Kuwait.” He smiled and said, “Wonderful.” I asked him in turn, “And where are you from?” He answered, “I am from one of the countries in Central Africa,” then smiled and added, “Kuwait holds a special place in our hearts. You have built many mosques for us and drilled numerous wells, and we hold Kuwait and its people in the highest esteem and gratitude.”

I was overwhelmed with joy and deep pride at the driver’s words, and I told him, “This is nothing unusual for Kuwait and Kuwaitis.”

At that moment, I proudly recalled how this noble humanitarian approach was crowned when Kuwait was awarded the title of “Center for Humanitarian Action,” and how the late Emir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad (may God have mercy on him) was granted the title of “Leader of Humanitarian Action” by the United Nations in 2014, in recognition of the prominent humanitarian role played by Kuwait, both government and people, in providing relief and humanitarian aid worldwide without discrimination.

This approach has contributed to enhancing the exchange of expertise, cultures, and languages, and to interacting smoothly with the peoples of the world, making Kuwaitis excellent ambassadors for their country. They leave positive and humanitarian imprints, reflecting their values in charitable work, and travel the world carrying the knowledge, insight, and wisdom they have acquired.

These peaceful Kuwaiti imprints abroad—whether resulting from government or public efforts, collective or individual—have made Kuwaitis outstanding ambassadors for their homeland, leaving a good impression in the hearts of peoples around the world. As a result, every Kuwaiti visiting a new country is met with appreciation and respect, owing to the bright image painted by their compatriots.

This humanitarian presence and dignified conduct have given the peoples of other countries a positive impression and a bright image of Kuwait and its people. Consequently, these peoples, regionally and globally, now appreciate, respect, welcome, and value the influential role of their state, which, despite its small geographical size, is great in its values, stances, and international standing.

I said to myself: Thank you to every positive imprint painted abroad, which has become an honorable emblem for Kuwait and Kuwaitis.