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German envoy congratulates Kuwait on GCC’s Presidency, hails relations

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KUWAIT: The Ambassador of Germany to Kuwait Hans-Christian von Reibnitz congratulates Kuwait on the GCC’s Presidency, highlighting the importance of the significant responsibilities it carries amid regional and global challenges. During an iftar with local media representatives, the German ambassador praised His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and his government for their leadership in navigating these challenges, emphasizing the importance of reliability in both GCC and international relations.

Highlighting Germany’s shared commitment to a rules-based international order, the ambassador reaffirmed the strong partnership between Germany and Kuwait, underscoring the significance of Kuwait’s leadership in the GCC and the importance of international cooperation in promoting stability and adherence to global norms.

Regarding economic cooperation, he stated: “Steering an economy through stormy weather requires clear perspectives of the achievable aims. Kuwait needs partners to realize its ambitious Vision 2035 and create a sustainable national economic basis for the years to come. I welcome the close economic cooperation between Germany and Kuwait, also in the EU-GCC framework, and look forward to seeing German companies joining European partners at the Business Forum planned in connection with the EU-GCC ministerial later this year.”

German ambassador poses for group photo with local media representatives.

German ambassador poses for group photo with local media representatives.

The ambassador continued, “Also, I expect Kuwait to host the next meeting of the Joint Kuwaiti-German Economic Commission in due time. We should both look for opportunities to cooperate in our common interest. German companies stand ready to support.” On the other hand, the ambassador praised the spirit of compassion and solidarity that defines Ramadan in Kuwait, highlighting the country’s ongoing humanitarian efforts to alleviate suffering in conflict-affected regions. He added, “While we all celebrate Ramadan in Kuwait, a time of compassion and mutual support, I am heartened by the continued humanitarian efforts of the Kuwaiti government to alleviate the suffering of those affected by war, civil strife, hunger, and displacement, particularly in Gaza, Syria, and Sudan.”

He emphasized Germany’s commitment to humanitarian aid, reaffirming his country’s support for the Arab Plan for Gaza and noted that Germany remains one of the largest contributors of humanitarian assistance to the region, saying “We support any effort to extend the ceasefire and find ways to address the needs of the suffering civilian population,” the ambassador added.

Regarding Syria, the ambassador underscored Germany’s dedication to supporting a political solution that ensures stability and inclusivity. “We are closely following the developments in Syria and are ready to support any political solution in the war-stricken country, that will stabilize it and guarantee the active participation of all Syrians in forging a future, irrespective of their belief, ethnic background, or gender,” he noted.

“Humanitarian assistance is never enough. And it only addresses the symptoms of the problems the world is facing. The current tendency to resort to violence and aggression in pursuit of interests has rendered the world more dangerous. While the peaceful resolution of disputes remains the ultimate aim, Germany and Kuwait stand firm in safeguarding the rules-based international order and fundamental principles of international law such as the right of sovereignty and territorial integrity. The justice of the powerful delivers our world to lawlessness. Germany was part of the global coalition standing by Kuwait in 1990/91 because Kuwait was a victim of aggression. Germany will continue to stand by Ukraine for the same reason,” he explained.

On German politics, the ambassador pointed out that after the snap elections on 23 February, Government formation is currently underway. The party leader of the Christian Democrats CDU, Friedrich Merz has announced to propose a coalition government before mid-April. “Given the current threats to peace and stability in Europe, he has negotiated a three-party agreement to raise the finances for a comprehensive national and European security plan, while agreeing to also invest in infrastructure and the environmental sustainability of the German economy. Once the new government is formed, I expect the key messages of the government program to be communicated without delay.”

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Exit permit now mandatory for expat workers

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KUWAIT: A decision mandating expatriates working in the private sector to obtain an exit permit with the prior approval of their employers comes into effect on Tuesday, July 1, 2025. Employees need to apply through the Sahel app or the Public Authority of Manpower’s website. The employer must then approve the request online before the authority issues the permit. The decision applies to private sector employees who have residency under article 18. Those who have article 19 residency – self-sponsored – are not required to obtain the exit permit.

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410 students benefit from Educational Care Bank project

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KUWAIT: Al-Safa Charitable Society announced that 410 students across various educational stages have benefited from the Educational Care Bank project for the 2024-2025 academic year. The initiative, implemented in collaboration with the General Secretariat of Endowments, provided a total of KD 100,000 (approximately $330,000) in educational support within Kuwait. Chairman of Al-Safa’s Board of Directors Mohammad Al-Shaya said in a press statement on Monday that the project reflects a shared commitment to supporting future generations by creating an educational environment free from financial obstacles. He emphasized that the initiative also aims to alleviate the financial burden faced by low-income families amid ongoing economic challenges.

Al-Shaya praised the General Secretariat of Endowments for its continued sponsorship of impactful and innovative projects that serve the community, particularly those focused on education. He noted that the Secretariat’s support for this program underscores its strong belief in education as a cornerstone for societal advancement and sustainable development. He added that Al-Safa Charitable Society, through this partnership, seeks to nurture a knowledgeable and responsible generation capable of contributing meaningfully to national development. The project, he explained, targets students who face difficulty in paying tuition fees, reaffirming the association’s belief in the right to education for all—without discrimination or financial barriers. — KUNA

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97,000 reverts and counting: IPC’s role in spreading Islam

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KUWAIT: Although it has been three months since the end of Ramadan, Islamic da’wah in Kuwait is far from limited to the holy month. Through organizations like the Islam Presentation Committee (IPC) — one of the country’s largest and oldest da’wah institutions — outreach efforts continue year-round. Since its founding in 1987, IPC has helped more than 97,000 people embrace Islam, including 2,702 in the past year alone. With over 3.4 million expatriates living in Kuwait — many from diverse religious backgrounds — the country often becomes more than just a place of work.

For many, it becomes the first space where they encounter Islam in a meaningful way. IPC’s efforts extend beyond traditional settings like mosques and religious centers. Thanks to the organization’s efforts, this Ramadan Kuwait did experience a significant increase in conversions to Islam, marking the highest number of conversions in the past seven years. Approximately 730 individuals from various nationalities embraced Islam by the 29th day of Ramadan.

This achievement is attributed to the efforts of 78 male and female preachers and the success of the “Change Their Lives” campaign, which included lectures and the distribution of preaching materials across the country. Much of IPC’s outreach focuses on laborers and domestic workers, meeting them in everyday environments such as markets, salons, workplaces, hospitals, farms, labor inspection offices, and even deportation centers.

Following initial outreach, new reverts begin a structured learning journey starting with a “Basic Islam” course that covers essential beliefs and practices. As they progress, students can enroll in advanced courses on Quranic interpretation, Tajweed, Islamic jurisprudence, Prophetic biography, and Islamic history — all offered free of charge.

Available in 14 languages

Arabic language classes are also available for non-native speakers, including non-Muslims who wish to understand Islamic texts or culture. IPC also supports lifelong Muslims, recognizing that many — especially those from non-Arabic-speaking countries — may never have had the chance to study Islam formally. “We don’t just teach the students — we create a community for them,” said Haya Alawadhi, head of IPC’s Salmiya branch. “A good circle of friends, emotional support from teachers and staff, and even financial assistance when needed.”

Many new Muslims face personal challenges — including separation from family and friends. IPC responds by fostering a family-like environment where instructors and fellow students offer compassion, inclusion and support. After carefully assessing individual needs, IPC also provides financial aid and job placement assistance to ease the transition. With lectures and materials available in 14 languages, the organization ensures accessibility for newcomers of all backgrounds. In 2024 alone, the committee recorded 8,455 students from 39 nationalities enrolled in its programs.

“We don’t call each other by titles”

“We don’t call each other by titles,” Alawadhi added. “We say ‘sister’ and ‘brother.’ You might find an American sitting next to an Asian or a European, and everyone is treated the same. If someone walks in with bias, it fades once they become part of this place.” To further its reach, IPC has expanded into digital outreach, offering social media campaigns, interactive online lectures, and Islamic content to engage younger audiences and remote learners.

IPC’s da’wah efforts are not limited to blue-collar communities. The organization also engages diplomats, professionals, and high-profile guests, presenting them with traditional Kuwaiti gift boxes that include a translated Quran, a tourism brochure, and Islamic educational materials. In 2024 alone, IPC organized around 881 training courses. Alawadhi also shared that IPC trains new Muslims to become future Islamic educators and preachers. “Some of our most active preachers today were once IPC students who converted to Islam,” she added. IPC runs around 14 branches and centers that are spread across Kuwait’s governorates.

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