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Kuwait’s envoy to US meets commerce secretary, reaffirms strong bilateral ties

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WASHINGTON: Kuwait’s Ambassador to the United States Sheikha Al-Zain Al-Sabah met US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick on Wednesday, emphasizing the deep and longstanding partnership between Kuwait and the United States. During the meeting, Sheikha Al-Zain highlighted the historic ties between the two nations, stating that the “Kuwaiti-American partnership was forged in blood and strengthened by peace”.

She recalled the diplomatic efforts that led to the formation of an international coalition for Kuwait’s liberation in February 1991. She also underscored the lasting impact of that historic moment on the Kuwaiti people, reiterating Kuwait’s deep gratitude to the United States for its leadership and the bravery of its armed forces. Lutnick reaffirmed the enduring significance of these historical ties.

Sheikha Al-Zain emphasized the pride both countries share in their historic collaboration, pointing out that Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm were not only military successes but also an innovative financial model funded by Kuwait and allied contributions. She stated that Kuwait had ensured that the United States and its taxpayers bore no financial burden for the war to liberate Kuwait. She further pointed out that contributions from Kuwait and its allies not only covered all costs but also generated a financial surplus, reflecting the exceptional nature of this approach.

The ambassador also highlighted the post-war cooperation in tackling environmental crises, particularly the massive fires set in Kuwaiti oil fields during the Gulf War, hailing the swift and strategic international response. She praised the extraordinary efforts of Kuwaiti firefighters, engineers and oil specialists who worked tirelessly alongside international firefighting teams, demonstrating exceptional skill, determination and innovation in one of the most complex firefighting missions ever.

Sheikha Al-Zain noted that their swift response and expertise contributed to protecting Kuwait’s vital resources and accelerating the recovery of the oil sector. She added that the joint efforts, which were rapidly mobilized and strategically executed with the expertise of leading US firms, stood as a testament to the strength of global cooperation in overcoming environmental and economic crises. Lutnick commended Kuwait’s partnership with US companies in handling the fires.

On economic matters, Sheikha Al-Zain reaffirmed Kuwait’s commitment to open-market policies that support business and trade. She pointed out that Kuwait maintains one of the world’s lowest tariff rates at a fixed 5 percent for all trade partners, including Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and the US. She also stressed that Kuwait does not impose protective tariffs on American products and provides exemptions for goods imported for US military operations. Lutnick welcomed these policies, commending Kuwait’s openness as a key factor in strengthening future economic ties.

The ambassador also shed light on Kuwait’s significant economic footprint in the US, represented by the Kuwait Investment Authority, the Public Institution for Social Security and the private sector. She noted that Kuwaiti institutions and businesses hold substantial and strategic investments in US markets, reflecting Kuwait’s strong confidence in the American economy’s long-term growth.

Lutnick acknowledged the importance of these investments in enhancing economic ties, expressing appreciation for Kuwait’s contributions. The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to further strengthening the historic US-Kuwait partnership, ensuring its continued growth and prosperity for future generations.

The meeting came after Lutnick had made statements criticizing Kuwait’s trade policies, specifically regarding tariffs on American products. He accused Kuwait of imposing some of the highest tariffs on US goods, while invoking the United States’ role in liberating Kuwait during the 1991 Gulf War. He reportedly claimed that the US spent “nearly $100 billion to liberate Kuwait”, suggesting that Kuwait’s trade practices are unfair given this historical support. Notably, official US records from 1992 suggest the Gulf War cost the US around $61.1 billion, with allies like Kuwait contributing significantly (about $36 billion from Gulf states), contradicting the $100 billion figure Lutnick cited. — Agencies

Key highlights of the meeting

• Strong Bilateral Ties: Ambassador Sheikha Al-Zain Al-Sabah emphasized the deep-rooted partnership between Kuwait and the US, forged through historical events such as Kuwait’s liberation in 1991.

• Military and Strategic Cooperation: She highlighted the financial contributions of Kuwait and its allies in covering the costs of the Gulf War, ensuring no financial burden on the US or its taxpayers.

• Post-War Collaboration: Sheikha Al-Zain discussed Kuwait’s role in tackling the massive oil well fires during the Gulf War, praising the joint efforts of Kuwaiti and US specialists in one of the largest firefighting operations in history.

• Economic and Trade Relations: Sheikha Al-Zain reaffirmed Kuwait’s commitment to open-market policies, maintaining a low 5% tariff rate for all trade partners, including the US. She also noted that Kuwait does not impose protective tariffs on American products.

• Kuwaiti Investments in the US: She highlighted Kuwait’s significant economic presence in the US through major investments by the Kuwait Investment Authority, the Public Institution for Social Security, and the private sector.

• Future Commitment: Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening US-Kuwait relations and ensuring the continued growth of their economic and strategic partnership.

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Crown Prince receives Egyptian Deputy PM

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KUWAIT: His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah received on Tuesday at Bayan Palace the Egyptian Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Development and Minister of Transport and Industry, Lieutenant General Kamel Abdulhadi Al-Wazir, and his accompanying delegation on the occasion of their official visit to the country. The meeting was attended by Kuwait’s Minister of Public Works Dr Noura Al-Mashaan and Egypt’s Ambassador to Kuwait Osama Shaltout.– KUNA photos

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Workshop discusses health competency framework

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KUWAIT: The Ministry of Health (MoH) on Monday inaugurated a regional workshop titled “Competency Framework”, aimed at reviewing the preliminary draft of a competency framework for public health professionals. The three-day workshop is organized by the Gulf Center for Disease Control in cooperation with the Gulf Health Council and the Kuwait Center for Disease Prevention and Control (KCDC).

In his opening remarks, Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health at the Ministry, Dr Munther Al-Hasawi, welcomed a distinguished group of public health leaders and specialists from GCC countries, emphasizing the workshop’s importance in light of the increasing need to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the public health workforce. Al-Hasawi stressed the critical role of investing in human capital through training, capacity building, and well-structured competency frameworks grounded in scientific and practical methodologies. He noted that public health competency goes beyond technical expertise, encompassing key administrative and interpersonal skills such as leadership, teamwork, and effective communication.

“Competency in public health is the ability to deliver appropriate, effective services to communities while achieving optimal outcomes,” Al-Hasawi said. “It includes service delivery, resource management, community engagement, and cross-sectoral cooperation.” Chairing the workshop, Dr Mohammed Al-Saeedan, Head of the Emergency Department – Public Health at KCDC, told reporters that the session aims to discuss and refine the initial draft of the framework with input from regional decision-makers and experts. The goal, he said, is to develop a comprehensive guide to strengthen the capabilities of the health workforce across GCC countries.

“Competency frameworks contribute to improving public health, increasing life expectancy, reducing the overall health burden, and advancing sustainable development,” Al-Saeedan explained. “Healthy individuals are more productive and better able to contribute to society.” He emphasized the importance of continuously updating public health guidelines and competency standards to build professional readiness and effectively address evolving health challenges. “Guidelines serve as essential tools in disease prevention and health promotion, guiding individuals and communities in making informed health choices that enhance quality of life,” he said.

Al-Saeedan noted that global shifts and the rising prevalence of diseases demand heightened preparedness and response capabilities. “As the world increasingly prioritizes prevention over treatment, public health professionals must be equipped with the highest level of skill and knowledge to manage emergencies and implement effective interventions,” he added. The workshop is expected to result in key recommendations that will shape a unified GCC approach to public health competency development and workforce excellence. — KUNA

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The hidden drivers behind high prices in Kuwait

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Although Kuwait was ranked earlier this year as the second least expensive Gulf country in the 2025 World Cost of Living Index, many residents feel that the prices of certain goods or services remain disproportionately high compared to other countries. While essential services — such as electricity, water, and fuel — are heavily subsidized and therefore inexpensive, other aspects of life, including housing, entertainment, and branded products, often carry a much steeper cost.

Therefore, according to economic expert Dr. Amer Al Tamimi, the root of the issue lies not in government policy, but in people’s behavior — whether it’s business owners inflating prices or consumers adopting high-cost lifestyles. Each year the state allocates no less than KD 6 billion in subsidies for electricity, water, fuel, and even certain food items. “In fact, the government has made life remarkably affordable for citizens — perhaps even too affordable.” But while basic goods may be inexpensive, the same cannot be said for luxury and lifestyle products. According to Al Tamimi, the high standard of living and strong purchasing power among Kuwait’s resident’s fuels intense demand for premium items — from cars and watches to high-end services and entertainment.

“These items might be cheaper elsewhere, but in Kuwait, the appetite for luxury pushes prices higher,” he explained. Even mid-range categories, such as transportation and clothing, are considered expensive when compared to regional or global averages. Social behavior plays a significant role in shaping price dynamics. “Some individuals, despite earning modest incomes, make choices driven by appearances,” said Al Tamimi. “Someone earning KD 1,000 might buy a car with KD 500 monthly installments just to keep up an image.”

This desire to showcase wealth creates an artificial demand for high-end goods and services. As demand rises, so do prices, creating a feedback loop that affects everything from café menus to car dealerships. “There’s a culture of excessive consumption. People need to rethink their habits, as rational consumption can lead to lower prices overall,” he suggested. This culture of overspending is reflected in many lifestyle choices. “I am surprised to see people pay for coffee delivery when they can simply an easily make it at home,” said Altamimi.

While some spending habits may be avoidable, others — like housing — are fundamental and affect nearly everyone. Al Tamimi pointed to Kuwait’s real estate market as one of the most significant contributors to the high cost of living, citing the soaring price of land. “Land alone accounts for around 70 to 75 percent of the total cost of any building,” he explained. “This is very different from many other countries, where land is more affordable and makes up a smaller portion of overall costs.” This imbalance has driven up both property prices and rent, placing a heavy burden on households and businesses alike. For many residents, housing expenses consume a large share of their monthly income.

Another key issue, Al Tamimi argued, is the lack of competition in certain markets. “Some goods are effectively monopolized by one, two, or three importers,” he noted. This concentration of market power gives a small number of players the ability to set prices with little competitive pressure. To address this, he urged efforts to open up the market. “Breaking these monopolies and encouraging more entrepreneurs to enter different sectors could help,” he said. “We need to streamline business procedures and reduce bureaucratic hurdles that currently discourage new players. In many cases, we only have a handful of stores selling certain products. More competition will ultimately benefit the consumer.”

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