Lebanese Ambassador: We look forward to the return of Kuwaiti students to study in Beirut

The Lebanese Ambassador to Kuwait, Ghadi Khoury, affirmed that the educational and academic relations between the two countries are historical and robust, emphasizing the importance of strengthening and developing them, and encouraging Kuwaiti students to return to Lebanon’s prestigious universities, which have maintained their distinguished academic standards and continued to develop their educational programs.

Speaking to “An-Nahar” on the sidelines of the Lebanese Universities Exhibition in Kuwait, the ambassador stated that the exhibition represents an educational opportunity aimed at introducing Kuwaiti and Lebanese students, as well as those interested in studying in Lebanon, to Lebanese universities and their specializations, and providing them with the chance to learn about available academic programs, particularly for students who are unable to visit university exhibitions abroad.

He clarified that the meeting also serves as an opportunity to connect with Lebanese students residing in Kuwait, understand their needs and challenges, and work to assist them in addressing any obstacles they may face in their academic journey or daily lives.

He noted that nine Lebanese universities participated in the exhibition, with expectations that more will join, adding that organizing this event aligns with the commitment to enhancing academic communication between educational institutions in both countries.

The ambassador expressed his hope that Kuwaiti students would regain the interest shown by previous generations in studying in Lebanon, affirming that Lebanese universities have been and remain an important educational destination for Kuwaiti students. He highlighted that Lebanon is distinguished by its reputable universities and high educational standards, in addition to its geographical proximity to Kuwait, with a flight time of only about an hour and a half between the two countries. This proximity allows students to obtain an international educational experience while remaining close to their families.

He added that Lebanon offers a social and cultural environment similar to Kuwaiti society, which facilitates students’ integration during their studies. He emphasized that Lebanese universities can serve as a complementary option to other educational destinations, such as the United States and the United Kingdom.

He pointed out that Kuwaiti students studying in Lebanon benefit from the quality of education and the diversity of specializations, as well as the opportunity to pursue postgraduate studies. He noted that there are Kuwaiti students continuing their postgraduate studies, including doctoral degrees, at Lebanese universities.

Regarding educational relations between the two countries, the ambassador affirmed that they are good and characterized by continuous communication, but they always require further consolidation and strengthening to open broader avenues for cooperation between academic institutions and universities in Kuwait and Lebanon.

He noted the presence of Lebanese students continuing their studies at Kuwaiti educational institutions, including schools and universities such as Kuwait University and the American University of Kuwait, expressing his appreciation for their interest in education in the country.

He revealed plans to work with the Kuwaiti Minister of Higher Education to increase the number of available seats for Lebanese students, clarifying that the current number ranges between four and five seats, according to his statement. He expressed his hope to raise this number to enhance opportunities for Lebanese students to complete their studies in Kuwait.

On the level of bilateral relations, the ambassador pointed to ongoing communication between officials in both countries, noting that the Lebanese Prime Minister met with the Crown Prince during the United Nations General Assembly meetings, a move reflecting continued coordination and consultation between the two sides.

He added that there are projects and communications underway, alongside preparations for mutual visits, noting that Hassan bin Muawiya, head of Tripoli’s Special Economic Zone, is preparing to visit Kuwait following an invitation from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, as he stated during the meeting. He emphasized that the presence of a new Kuwaiti ambassador to Lebanon and a new Lebanese ambassador to Kuwait would provide additional dynamism to bilateral relations and promote enhanced cooperation across various fields. Regarding his diplomatic experience in Kuwait during his first year, the ambassador expressed his appreciation for the warmth and solidarity shown by Kuwaitis toward Lebanon and the Lebanese people. He said that what distinguishes his experience in Kuwait is the genuine affection he feels from the local people toward his country, which is reflected in their treatment of him and his family, considering these sentiments to be a unique human experience he has not encountered in other places where he has worked. He further noted that professional opportunities remain open to him, and that his relationships with Kuwaiti officials and institutions are based on cooperation and continuous communication. Concluding his remarks, the ambassador pointed out that the security developments witnessed in Kuwait and the region have cast a shadow over the general situation, considering the Iranian aggression against Kuwait and the region to be a key factor in complicating the regional landscape, with repercussions on countries in the region, including Lebanon.