British Ambassador: Our commitment to Kuwait's security and sovereignty is unwavering

The British Ambassador to Kuwait, Qudsi Rashid, affirmed his country’s firm commitment to Kuwait’s security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, stressing that the historical ties between the two nations, spanning more than 125 years, represent a strategic partnership based on mutual trust and cooperation across various fields.

In an interview with the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Rashid stated that Kuwait is one of the UK’s oldest and most important partners in the Gulf, noting that bilateral cooperation covers defense, security, trade, investment, health, education, energy, culture, and innovation. He added that the two countries work together to address shared challenges, foremost among them regional security, economic diversification, and leveraging modern technologies, pointing out that high-level mutual visits reflect the depth of the partnership and renew Britain’s commitment to supporting Kuwait.

**Solid Defense Cooperation**

The ambassador clarified that military cooperation constitutes one of the key pillars of bilateral relations, and the bonds strengthened during Kuwait’s liberation in 1991 remain the foundation for trust and coordination between the armed forces of both countries. He noted that cooperation includes military training and education, enhancing defense capabilities and equipment, exchanging expertise in countering drones, and strengthening coordination between security and defense institutions, thereby raising readiness and supporting regional security and stability.

Regarding security developments in the region, Rashid reaffirmed that his country’s stance on Kuwait’s security and sovereignty is unwavering. He explained that the UK has worked alongside Kuwait and its Gulf partners during recent regional tensions to support stability through continuous coordination, maintaining an appropriate presence in the region, and safeguarding freedom of navigation.

He praised Kuwait’s role in enhancing stability, stating that Kuwait enjoys regional respect due to its approach based on dialogue, diplomacy, and de-escalation, and is a key partner in the UK’s long-term strategy toward the Gulf.

**Economic and Technological Opportunities**

On the economic front, Rashid emphasized the wide opportunities to increase bilateral trade and investments, noting that the UK is a primary destination for Kuwaiti investments, while British companies contribute to supporting Kuwait’s economic development and achieving the goals of the “New Kuwait 2035” vision. He added that his country looks forward to expanding cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital technologies, clean energy, healthcare, higher education, and financial services, thereby supporting economic diversification and innovation in both nations.

He considered the conclusion of negotiations on the free trade agreement between the UK and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, announced on May 20, 2026, as a significant milestone for enhancing commercial and economic relations. He clarified that, upon entering into force, the agreement will help reduce trade barriers, improve market access, open new opportunities for businesses and investors, and strengthen cooperation in services and digital trade.

**A Partnership Looking to the Future**

The ambassador affirmed that the next phase will focus on deepening military cooperation and joint training programs, as well as exploring new opportunities in emerging technologies, cybersecurity, and future defense capabilities. He noted that the UK-Kuwait strategic dialogue and regular high-level meetings provide a framework for identifying cooperation opportunities and following up on joint initiatives.

Rashid concluded by reiterating that both countries look forward to building a modern and innovative partnership that delivers sustainable benefits for Kuwait, the UK, and their peoples.