KUWAIT: The Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) affirmed Tuesday the depth of Kuwaiti–Belgian relations, noting the strong ties between the two nations built on years of friendship, mutual trust, and shared aspirations across various sectors.
This came in a press statement issued by the chamber on the occasion of receiving an economic delegation from Belgium, headed by Isabelle Grippa, CEO of the Brussels Agency for Business Support. The meeting was attended by Belgian Ambassador to Kuwait Christian Domes, Secretary-General of the Arab-Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce Kaisar Hijazin, representatives from Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority (KDIPA), and businesspeople from both sides.
According to the chamber, the total trade exchange between the two countries reached approximately $253.5 million in 2023, while Kuwait and Belgium continue to maintain a joint investment relationship, particularly in sectors such as infrastructure, real estate, and finance.
Belgian Ambassador Christian Domes expressed his satisfaction with the meeting, noting that the significant presence of Belgian companies reflects their keen interest in enhancing bilateral relations and establishing joint ventures with their Kuwaiti counterparts. He emphasized that Kuwait, as one of the world’s major oil exporters, holds strategic importance, and its sovereign wealth fund ranks fifth globally among the strongest sovereign wealth funds.
Domes highlighted key areas for cooperation between the two countries, including political and economic relations, food security, healthcare, renewable and sustainable energy, infrastructure, and free zone projects. Kaisar Hijazin, Secretary-General of the Arab-Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce, also expressed his pleasure with the meeting, pointing out the participation of 40 distinguished companies and calling for joint efforts to achieve shared goals.
Hijazin noted that Kuwait is a significant investment partner, citing its strategic investments in Belgium’s oil and gas sectors. KDIPA delivered a presentation on the “New Kuwait 2035” vision, outlining key projects and partnerships in the private sector and beyond. Belgian companies also presented overviews of their services and products across various industries. — KUNA
