Antigua and Barbuda Ambassador to Al-Qabas: Kuwait is a key strategic partner in our developmental and economic future

May Al-Sukari: The Ambassador of Antigua and Barbuda to Kuwait, Mohammed Al-Zubaidi, affirmed that his country regards Kuwait as a crucial strategic partner in its developmental and economic future, expressing optimism for broader cooperation in investment, trade, tourism, renewable energy, and political and diplomatic collaboration.

In an interview with Al-Qabas, Al-Zubaidi revealed that his embassy commenced its operations in Kuwait in 2026, a step reflecting the political will to strengthen ties between the two nations. He confirmed that work is ongoing to finalize the administrative and organizational arrangements for the permanent diplomatic mission, enabling the delegation to perform its duties to the fullest extent. Al-Zubaidi noted that having a resident embassy represents a practical commitment to building a sustainable partnership serving the interests of both friendly countries.

He emphasized that his country appreciates the developmental and humanitarian role played by Kuwait, particularly through the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, pointing to promising opportunities to attract Kuwaiti investments in the water, tourism, hospitality, infrastructure, and clean energy sectors. He added that his country views its relations with Kuwait as a long-term partnership that extends beyond aid to include investment, tourism, renewable energy, and trade. He highlighted that Antigua and Barbuda’s location in the Caribbean and its regional connectivity offer additional opportunities for Kuwaiti investors, as well as enhancing political consultation and cooperation in international forums.

Regarding initiatives to activate the five agreements signed between the two countries, particularly in trade, investment, economic cooperation, and air services, Al-Zubaidi clarified that the success of these agreements is measured by the extent to which they are translated into tangible cooperation and practical projects. He stated that his country is working to identify priority sectors through communication with relevant Kuwaiti authorities and encouraging meetings between business and investment institutions, noting opportunities in tourism, infrastructure, and clean energy. He further indicated that both sides are exploring ways to improve air connectivity between the Gulf region and the Caribbean, either directly or through operational and commercial arrangements.

On the water project and investment cooperation opportunities, and whether there are communications with the Public Authority for Investment, the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, or the Kuwaiti private sector to attract new investments, Al-Zubaidi said his country is paying close attention to Kuwaiti investment expertise and the potential for cooperation with Kuwaiti developmental institutions and the private sector. He revealed that one priority file involves a project to develop the water sector, which includes enhancing production capacity by establishing a plant with a capacity of 3 million gallons per day, alongside improving distribution networks. He explained that the project is linked to completing studies and technical and institutional requirements, noting that his country also sees promising opportunities in tourism, hospitality, renewable energy, and services, preferring to announce any investment once it reaches an advanced stage.

Regarding travel facilitations and the European Union’s request for his government to end its citizenship-by-investment program by 2028, and the implications for Antigua and Barbuda’s attractiveness to investors, particularly from Gulf countries, Al-Zubaidi stated that the program is one of the tools for supporting development and diversifying revenues. He affirmed that his country is seriously addressing international partners’ concerns regarding transparency, due diligence, and security.

Regarding the possibility of expanding entry facilitations and visa exemptions for Kuwaiti citizens, particularly businessmen, students, and investors seeking to invest, Al-Zoubi affirmed that his country places great importance on facilitating travel and communication between the two peoples, recognizing the direct impact this has on boosting tourism, trade, and education. He added that Kuwaiti citizens enjoy entry facilitations to Antigua and Barbuda in accordance with existing regulations, noting his country’s aspiration to continue developing related services and procedures in coordination with the relevant authorities.

With regard to the possibility of Antigua and Barbuda becoming a partner for Kuwait in achieving food security, especially amid disruptions in global supply chains, Al-Zoubi stated that food security has become a strategic challenge on a global scale. He clarified that despite the limited geographical area of his country, there are opportunities for cooperation in the fields of modern agriculture, aquaculture, agricultural technologies, water management, and food industries.

On the Gulf’s security and his country’s stance on regional tensions and threats facing Gulf security and sea lanes, Al-Zoubi emphasized that his country’s foundational position is based on full respect for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of states, and on rejecting the threat or use of force in violation of the UN Charter. He stressed that Kuwait’s security and stability are essential elements of Gulf security, the global economy, and the safety of navigation. He reaffirmed his country’s support for initiatives aimed at de-escalation through peaceful means, diplomatic solutions, and adherence to international law, considering them the fundamental guarantees for the security of all states. He also affirmed his country’s support for Kuwait’s right to defend its security and confront any aggression.

In commenting on Kuwait’s election as a member of the UN Human Rights Council for the term 2027–2029, and on his country’s view of this diplomatic milestone and the possibility of coordinating with Kuwait on international human rights files, Al-Zoubi congratulated Kuwait, its leadership, government, and people, regarding the election as reflecting its diplomatic standing and the international community’s confidence in its role. He added that enhancing human rights requires dialogue, cooperation, and respect for international commitments, pointing to areas for joint coordination, foremost among them the right to development, protection of the most vulnerable groups, the human rights impacts of climate change, and capacity building.