Ambassador Tiziano Palmieri to Al-Qabas: Crown Prince's Visit Boosts Kuwait-Swiss Relations Momentum

Mays Al-Suqoor: Swiss Ambassador to Kuwait, Tiziano Balmelli, affirmed that the official visit of His Highness the Crown Prince, Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled, to Switzerland holds great significance and represents a milestone in the trajectory of Kuwaiti-Swiss relations, particularly as it comes within the framework of commemorating the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. He noted that the visit reflects the high momentum characterizing bilateral relations and strengthens the bonds of enduring friendship that have united Kuwait and Switzerland for decades.

Balmelli, in a statement to Al-Qabas, stated that the Crown Prince’s visit to Bern follows the historic visit made by Swiss President Guy Parmelin to Kuwait in early February last year, considering both visits as confirmation of the high level reached by relations between the two countries and serving as “strong evidence of the ancient, enduring, and distinctive friendship linking our two states over several decades.”

He explained that Kuwaiti-Swiss relations have evolved over the past decades to encompass a wide range of areas, from economic exchanges and tourism to international cooperation in providing developmental and humanitarian aid to those in need, highlighting that this close friendship still offers significant potential for further growth. He added that enhancing trade and investment lies at the core of the Crown Prince’s visit, simultaneously revealing efforts to identify new humanitarian and developmental projects to be jointly funded by Switzerland and Kuwait and implemented by United Nations agencies, such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). He emphasized that the situation in the Gulf, along with security, economy, and investment, were among the key files on the negotiation table.

Regarding the files and issues expected to take priority during the Crown Prince’s talks with Swiss leadership, Balmelli said the visit allows the two “peace-loving” countries to discuss the regional situation in the Gulf at the highest level, and the serious repercussions it imposes on the security and prosperity of the concerned countries and peoples. He affirmed that the Swiss President renewed “Switzerland’s full solidarity with Kuwait and its people, who have been unjustly drawn into a dangerous regional conflict,” stressing the shared vision to facilitate dialogue and contribute to efforts aimed at ending hostile actions.

On Kuwaiti investments in Switzerland and opportunities to expand them in new sectors, particularly technology, healthcare, and financial services, Ambassador Balmelli affirmed that economic relations between the two countries are “stable and strong,” despite the difficult global economic environment. He pointed out the presence of approximately 20 Swiss companies with a permanent presence in Kuwait, operating across a wide range of sectors, and confirmed the existence of significant potential to enhance economic cooperation in healthcare, the financial technology (“fintech”) sector, sustainable agriculture, food security, and environmental technologies. He noted that the Kuwaiti-Swiss Business Days will return for its second edition next November.

Balmelli also highlighted the successful launch of the Swiss-Kuwaiti Business Platform in 2023, explaining that it has been actively organizing networking events since then to promote trade and investment between the two countries, pointing to other important positive developments that could provide an additional boost to bilateral investment relations between our two countries.

On academic cooperation, he explained that language is no longer a barrier for students as it was in past decades, noting that Swiss universities have offered courses and programs in English for many years. He affirmed that the level of education and scientific research in Switzerland is “extremely high,” alongside the quality of life and safety levels, considering these factors provide ideal conditions for Kuwaiti families who pay great attention to the future of their children.

When asked whether Switzerland is considering taking new measures to facilitate travel for Kuwaitis, particularly families, students, and businessmen, the Swiss Ambassador confirmed that the Swiss government still supports the abolition of entry visas for Kuwaitis, clarifying that the decision-making process is subject to the rules and timelines applicable in the Schengen area in Brussels.

On Switzerland as an important destination for Kuwaiti tourists, Ambassador Balmelli expressed appreciation for Kuwait Airways for providing direct flights to Zurich during the summer season. He noted that, according to feedback from several travelers, the flight occupancy rate was “generally satisfactory,” taking into account current regional tensions and the reluctance of many people to travel. He stated that this air route “has significant potential,” including during the winter and ski season, affirming that Switzerland remains an important destination for Kuwaiti tourists.