KUWAIT: The Meteorological Department (MD) has forecast hot daytime temperatures and moderate nights over the weekend, with a chance of dust in open areas, Acting Director Dhirar Al-Ali told Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Thursday. Al-Ali explained that Kuwait is currently under the influence of an extended high-pressure system from the northwest, bringing hot, dry air and light to moderate northwesterly winds that may occasionally stir up dust and cause high waves at intervals.

The temperatures are expected to reach 36 to 38°C, with northwesterly to variable winds blowing at 8 to 35 km/h. The sea will be light to moderate, with waves between 1 and 4 feet. Overnight, temperatures will drop to 20 to 22°C, with light to moderate variable northwesterly winds at 8 to 30 km/h and a calm to moderate sea with waves of 1 to 3 feet.

Friday will see hot weather with northwesterly to northerly winds, occasionally active, ranging between 8 and 42 km/h, and a chance of dust in open areas. Daytime temperatures are expected to reach 36 to 38°C, while the sea will remain light to moderate, with waves between 1 and 5 feet. Nighttime temperatures will range from 20 to 22°C, with light to moderate northwesterly to variable winds at 8 to 28 km/h and a calm to moderate sea with waves of 1 to 3 feet.

Al-Ali said Saturday will also be hot, with northwesterly winds, sometimes active, between 10 and 45 km/h, and a chance of dust in open areas. Maximum temperatures are forecast at 37 to 39°C, with a light to moderate sea and waves reaching 2 to 6 feet. Overnight, temperatures will range between 21 and 23°C, with light to moderate variable northwesterly winds at 8 to 28 km/h and a calm to moderate sea with waves of 1 to 3 feet. The MD advised residents to take precautions in dusty areas and exercise caution at sea due to variable wave conditions. — KUNA

KUWAIT: A World Health Organization (WHO) official on Thursday praised the Kuwait Prize for Combating Cancer, Cardiovascular Diseases and Diabetes as a leading example in encouraging scientific research, highlighting Kuwait’s pivotal role in supporting medical advancements. Dr Adham Rashad, Director of Program Management for the Eastern Mediterranean Region at WHO, told KUNA that the prize exemplifies an initiative that stimulates scientific and medical research at both regional and international levels. He commended Kuwait’s ongoing commitment to advancing medical research and public health.

Speaking during the 72nd session of the WHO Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean in Cairo, Rashad said the prize reflects Kuwait’s humanitarian and scientific dedication to enhancing researchers’ capacities in tackling chronic health challenges. Launched in 2003, the award is presented annually for the best research addressing cancer, heart diseases, and diabetes—three of the most widespread and impactful conditions on human health.

Rashad noted that over the past 12 years, the Kuwait Prize has significantly enriched Arab and international medical research by highlighting exceptional work and fostering collaboration between scientific and medical institutions. He described it as a model partnership between national institutions and international organizations, positively contributing to medical science and quality of life.

Addressing challenges facing WHO in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, Rashad highlighted financial constraints as a key concern. He said discussions at the current session focused on the organization’s financial situation and restructuring to align with contemporary health priorities, especially in anticipation of the United States’ planned withdrawal from WHO in January 2026. He added that the region faces complex emergencies, with nearly half of its 22 countries in a state of emergency for various reasons, underscoring the urgent need for adequate financial and technical resources for rapid response. Member states have pledged to work collectively to address these gaps.

The conference also tackled issues such as the persistence of polio in Pakistan and Afghanistan, with Gulf Cooperation Council countries—including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar—pledging additional financial and technical support to bolster eradication efforts. Other discussions included climate change and its health impact, chronic diseases, laboratory safety standards, emergency response, and strengthening healthcare systems across the region.

Rashad praised the call by Egyptian Deputy Prime Minister and Health Minister Dr Khaled Abdel Ghaffar to launch the “Cairo Call for Health Response,” noting it as a key step toward coordinated regional health action. The 72nd session, concluding tomorrow, is attended by health ministers and officials from 22 countries, including Kuwait, as well as representatives from international and regional health organizations. During the session, Kuwaiti Minister of Health Dr Ahmad Al-Awadhi presented the Kuwait Prize to Dr Noor Al-Busaidi from Oman and Dr Majid Mobarhan from Iran. — KUNA

KUWAIT: Ambassador of Italy to Kuwait, Lorenzo Morini reaffirmed the strong and growing ties between Italy and Kuwait, noting that both countries are preparing for high-level visits and meetings in the coming months. During a press briefing to announce the “Italy Design Festival”, the ambassador stated “We enjoy an excellent bilateral relationship, and we are working to enhance cooperation in various sectors from defense and investment to science, education, and health.”

He announced that Italy and Kuwait maintain close defense cooperation, including the Eurofighter program, which is nearing completion with full delivery expected by early 2026. The Ambassador also highlighted ongoing partnerships between Kuwait’s National Guard and Italy’s Carabinieri, as well as joint initiatives on counterterrorism and security training.

He added that Italian companies, such as Pizzarotti, continue to contribute to Kuwait’s infrastructure, having built major projects like the new Maternity Hospital. Several Italian brands and contractors maintain an active presence in Kuwait across various sectors. The Ambassador praised Kuwait’s strong investment presence in Italy through entities such as Kuwait Petroleum International (Kuwait Petroleum) and the Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA). Italian companies are also investing in Kuwait, with joint ventures and technology transfer initiatives underway.

Regarding Tourism, he noted that it continues to grow, with increasing numbers of Kuwaitis traveling to Italy and Italian visitors discovering Kuwait, adding “We have noticed a rise in visa requests and growing enthusiasm for Italian destinations.” In education, the ambassador pointed out that there has been a significant increase in Kuwaiti students enrolling in Italian universities, many of which offer English-language programs. The two countries are also enhancing health cooperation, particularly in home care and elderly healthcare services, with discussions underway for a memorandum of understanding in this sector.

Meanwhile, Italy’s archaeological missions in Kuwait continue to uncover important historical findings, particularly on Failaka Island and along the Doha coast. The Ambassador revealed that discoveries are being documented for publication in an upcoming book supported by the Italian government. During the conference, the Italian ambassador announced the launch of “Italian Design Festival” a series of events celebrating Italian Design Day, highlighting Italy’s creativity and cultural excellence across multiple sectors. The celebration, organized in collaboration with Kuwaiti institutions, will take place between October 19 and October 25, offering a rich program of exhibitions, concerts, and performances.

Ambassador of Italy to Kuwait, Lorenzo Morini

The Ambassador emphasized Italy’s longstanding tradition of promoting design, creativity, and culture worldwide, saying “Italian Design Day showcases the very essence of our creativity – from furniture, fashion, and jewelry to art, music, and cuisine. Here in Kuwait, Italian products and culture are highly appreciated, and this year we wanted to do something different, more inclusive and engaging.”

The festivities will begin on Sunday, October 19, with the opening of an Italian exhibition, featuring Italian brands from various sectors, including fashion, food, furniture, medical equipment, perfumes, and automobiles. Also, displays of iconic Italian vehicles such as Maserati, Ferrari, and Vespa throughout the mall, with special sections dedicated to Italian jewelry and design.

During the weekend, The Avenues will host the renowned Sbandieratori di Gubbio, a traditional Italian flag-waving group that will perform on October 24 and 25. The performance, rooted in medieval Italian heritage, will feature colorful flags, historical costumes, and live traditional music. On October 21, the Contemporary Art Platform (CAP) will open an art exhibition by Italian artist Fiorentini, featuring portraits of landscapes, animals, and cars. The opening ceremony will include a live jazz concert.

Additionally, Italian designers will deliver lectures at Kuwait University and CAP, engaging with Kuwaiti architects and design students to strengthen creative collaboration. The festivities will also include a concert at the Americani Museum on October 19, featuring Italian and Kuwaiti musicians performing iconic film scores by composers such as Ennio Morricone. “This collaboration between Italian and Kuwaiti artists represents a beautiful symbol of unity and friendship between our two countries,” said the Ambassador. The Ambassador concluded by expressing his hope that the Italian Design Week will further strengthen the cultural and creative bonds between Italy and Kuwait.