U.S. Chargé d'Affaires: United States committed to Kuwait's security, sovereignty, and stability
U.S. Chargé d'Affaires Stephen Butler emphasized the deep historical ties with Kuwait and his country's commitment to its security and sovereignty, during the embassy's celebration of 65 years of diplomatic relations and the visit of Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Translated by Qiyas from السياسة — Original source
- The roots of the two countries’ relations date back to 1911... and our partnership has withstood various challenges
- The Embassy celebrates the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence
Stephen Butler, the Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait, affirmed today, Tuesday, the depth of the historic ties between the two friendly nations, emphasizing his country’s firm commitment to Kuwait’s security, sovereignty, and stability.
This statement came in a press remark by Butler on the sidelines of the U.S. Embassy’s celebration of the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence and the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations with the State of Kuwait, attended by Foreign Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, heads of diplomatic missions in the country, representatives of U.S. companies, and officials from various sectors.
Butler stated that the Kuwaiti-U.S. partnership exemplifies a strong friendship that has withstood various challenges over many decades, noting that relations between the two countries are not limited to the 65 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1961, but extend their roots back to 1911 with the founding of the American Hospital in Kuwait, which marked one of the early milestones of interaction between the two friendly peoples.
He added that the two peoples share deep historical and human bonds that predate formal diplomatic relations, contributing to the building of a partnership based on mutual trust, respect, and shared interests.
Butler recalled historical moments that demonstrated the resilience of these relations, foremost among them the United States’ support for Kuwait during the brutal Iraqi invasion in 1990 and its leadership of the international coalition that contributed to the country’s liberation in 1991.
He affirmed that the two countries continue to stand side by side in facing regional security challenges, driven by their shared commitment to protecting Kuwait’s sovereignty and the security of its people, and enhancing stability in the region.
In this context, he pointed to recent security challenges in the region, which necessitated the temporary evacuation of some U.S. Embassy staff before their return and the resumption of operations.
Butler described his leadership of the team that reopened the embassy last June as “one of the proudest moments of his career,” emphasizing that raising the U.S. flag again above the embassy building symbolized the continuity of friendship and close partnership between the two countries.
He highlighted the visit of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Kuwait and his meeting with His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may God protect and support him, as well as senior Kuwaiti officials, including the Foreign Minister, affirming that the visit reflected Washington’s determination to reaffirm its commitment to Kuwait and strengthen bilateral relations.
Regarding the celebration of the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, Butler said this historic occasion represents an opportunity to recall the principles upon which his country was founded, foremost among them freedom, popular sovereignty, innovation, and a forward-looking vision.
He explained that the “Freedom 250” initiative—the slogan of the celebrations—aims to honor the United States’ journey over two and a half centuries and renew commitment to the values and principles that formed the foundation of its establishment.
He noted that the celebration is not limited to remembering the past, but serves as an occasion to look ahead to the coming years and strengthen the values of freedom, creativity, and innovation that have contributed to the development of the United States and its global standing.
He noted that the celebration in the State of Kuwait also reflects the broad presence of American companies and brands and their role in strengthening economic and cultural ties between the two peoples, emphasizing that the spread of American brands in Kuwait underscores the depth of economic and cultural engagement between the two countries.
He concluded his remarks by stating that the celebration of the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence and the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations with the State of Kuwait embodies the importance of preserving and building upon their shared historical legacy to enhance cooperation and partnership between the two countries in the coming period.
