Qudsi Rashid: Britain Continues to Support Kuwait in Enhancing Its Defense Capabilities

- British forces are present as part of the military cooperation established between the two sides.

Qadasi Rashid, the British Ambassador to Kuwait, affirmed that Kuwaiti-British defense relations have undergone significant development and maturation over the past decades. He emphasized that Britain no longer serves as Kuwait’s protector; rather, Kuwait is now a state capable of defending itself, with the British role consisting of assisting it in enhancing its defense capabilities and safeguarding its security.

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

He added that recent months have reaffirmed the depth of the historical ties between the two nations and underscored the importance of defense partnership and continuous cooperation in confronting challenges. Rashid clarified that the United Kingdom continues to support Kuwait in strengthening its defense capabilities, pointing out the presence of British military personnel in the country as part of the established military cooperation between the two sides.

He stated, “Britain is no longer Kuwait’s protector; Kuwait today defends itself.” He explained that his country’s role is to help Kuwait protect itself by supporting its military capabilities and developing its defense potential. He expressed confidence in the efforts undertaken by the Kuwaiti Armed Forces to maintain the country’s security, affirming that defense cooperation between the two nations is built on a long history of joint work and mutual trust.

The British Ambassador stressed the importance of strategic communication, particularly during wars and crises. He noted that media messages and their delivery constitute a crucial part of crisis management and confidence-building. He said that hostile parties seek to portray societies as divided and weak, making it essential, alongside self-defense and maintaining strength, to demonstrate unity, cohesion, and the capacity to confront challenges.

In this context, he recalled the experience of one of his predecessors, former British Ambassador Michael Western, who remained in Kuwait during the Iraqi invasion and refused to leave despite attempts to force his departure, staying at his residence under siege. He pointed out that one of the former ambassador’s messages to London reflected his concern over how Britain appeared to others; he expressed worry that the lack of running water might make Britain look inept, fearing Iraqi forces would exploit it propagandistically 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 that during the recent crisis, he made a point of appearing in public and engaging with the community by visiting shopping malls and restaurants and continuing daily activities, aiming to reassure people and convey the 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, highlighting the importance of communicating with British and Kuwaiti citizens and keeping them informed about developments on the ground. He emphasized that effective communication contributes to enhancing reassurance and clarifying positions, particularly during periods when there is a greater need for accurate information and clear messages.

On the role of the media, he expressed

The British ambassador expressed his appreciation for the role played by the media across its various platforms, emphasizing that media work is no less important than efforts in the fields of economy, business, defense, and political relations. He said that the public would not be able to learn about what institutions are doing or track developments in events without the media’s role, stressing the importance of print journalism, television, radio, and other platforms in conveying information and engaging with society. He added that the media’s role is not limited to reporting on the activities of various entities, but also serves as a means of listening to others and understanding their perspectives, thereby making the relationship between the media and institutions mutually beneficial and significant.

He noted that following Kuwaiti news prior to his arrival 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 clarified that the exhibition includes photographs documenting milestones in military history and British-Kuwaiti defense relations, including images dating back to 1920, and showcasing 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 inviting media professionals to 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 and building a relationship