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- The recent crisis underscored the depth of the Kuwaiti-British partnership

- Our presence in Kuwait is a message of reassurance and trust... Unity within society is essential to confront challenges

- Photo exhibition documents key milestones in the defense relations between the two countries since 1899

Qadasi Rashid, the British Ambassador to Kuwait, affirmed that Kuwaiti-British defense relations have witnessed significant development and maturity over the past decades. He emphasized that Britain no longer plays the role of Kuwait’s protector; rather, Kuwait has become a state capable of defending itself through the enhancement of its military capabilities and the development of its defense potential, with the British role now focused on assisting in strengthening these efforts.

Speaking at the opening of a photo exhibition documenting milestones in British-Kuwaiti defense relations at his residence, Rashid noted that the historical relationship between the two countries dates back to 1899 and has passed through pivotal stages. These began with the security and military challenges Kuwait faced in the early 20th century, continued through both World Wars, included Kuwait’s support on its path to independence in the 1960s, extended to the Iraqi invasion in 1990 and 1991, and encompassed recent regional developments and security challenges.

He added that recent months have reaffirmed the depth of the historical ties between the two countries and highlighted the importance of defense partnership and continuous cooperation in facing challenges.

Rashid stated that the United Kingdom continues to support Kuwait in enhancing its defense capabilities, noting the presence of British military personnel in the country as part of the ongoing military cooperation between the two sides.

He expressed confidence in the efforts undertaken by the Kuwaiti Armed Forces to safeguard the country’s security, affirming that defense cooperation between the two nations is built on a long history of joint action and mutual trust.

He pointed out that hostile parties seek to portray societies as divided and weak, making it imperative, alongside self-defense and maintaining strength, to demonstrate unity, cohesion, and the capacity to confront challenges.

He recalled the experience of a predecessor in the post, former British Ambassador Michael Western, who remained in Kuwait during the Iraqi invasion and refused to leave despite attempts to force his departure, staying in his residence under siege.

He noted that one of the former ambassador’s messages to London reflected his concern over how Britain appeared to others. He expressed worry that running water outages might make Britain look inadequate, fearing Iraqi forces could exploit this for propaganda purposes as evidence of waning British resolve.

He explained that this story illustrates the importance of image and the message conveyed to others, especially during crises and conflicts.

Rashid said he made a point during the recent crisis to appear in public and engage with the community by visiting shopping malls and restaurants and continuing daily activities, aiming to reassure people and convey a message that Britain is present in Kuwait and will not leave.

He added that this presence also reflected confidence in the Kuwaiti Armed Forces’ ability to maintain security, emphasizing the importance of communicating with British and Kuwaiti citizens to keep them informed about developments on the ground.

He stressed that effective communication contributes to enhancing reassurance and clarifying positions, particularly during periods when there is a heightened need for accurate information and clear messages.

The British Ambassador expressed appreciation for the role played by the media across all its platforms, affirming that media work is no less important than efforts in the fields of economy, business, defense, and political relations.

He stated that the public would not be able to learn about the work of institutions or follow developments in events without the role of the media, emphasizing the importance of print journalism, television, radio, and other platforms in conveying information and engaging with society.

He noted that his prior monitoring of Kuwaiti news before arriving in the country helped him better understand Kuwaiti society, expressing his appreciation for journalists and media professionals who contribute to documenting Kuwait’s history, culture, and society.

The British ambassador said the exhibition features photographs documenting key moments in military history and British-Kuwaiti defense relations, including images dating back to 1920, and showcases aspects of British presence and the evolution of relations with Kuwait across different historical periods.

He pointed out that the exhibition was initially held during a special event for senior officers of the Kuwaiti Armed Forces, aimed at expressing gratitude and appreciation for their work, without media attendance, before his wife suggested opening it to journalists and interested parties to view this historical legacy.

He affirmed that hosting journalists at the exhibition is part of efforts to strengthen communication with them and involve them in learning about the history of military cooperation between the two countries, expressing his welcome to old and new friends and his anticipation of continuing joint efforts to build a more solid media and professional relationship.