KUWAIT: Minister of Information, Culture, and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi praised Kuwait’s selection as the Capital of Arab Culture and Media for 2025, which represents a well-deserved recognition of its pioneering role in supporting Arab media, strengthening cultural identity, and reinforcing professional values. Speaking at the opening of the 20th Arab Media Forum that was held on Saturday under the theme ‘Media Challenges in the Era of Technological Advancement and Digital Transformation’, the minister noted that this designation coincides with the current forum session, giving it special momentum to continue delivering the media message with advanced vision and collective responsibility.

He emphasized that digital media has become the main driver of societal trends, an effective tool in shaping public opinion, building awareness, and enhancing interaction between individuals and institutions, stressing the importance of adapting to rapid technological transformations with professional competence and strategic foresight for a more advanced media future. He highlighted Kuwait’s continued leadership, crediting the support of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, HH the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah for consolidating Kuwait’s media position through strengthened infrastructure and strategic initiatives.

Among the most notable of these initiatives, he said, was the launch of a virtual reality documentation platform that archives Kuwait’s cultural and media heritage for future generations, blending authenticity with modernity. The Minister expressed pride in the United Arab Emirates being chosen as the guest of honor, calling it a “Well-deserved choice for a country that has made a clear mark in supporting Arab media, embracing the latest technologies, and producing content that reflects its regional and global leadership.”

He added that the Arab Media Forum has become a dynamic platform for addressing media issues and sharing expertise, stating “This year’s edition will explore the challenges posed by artificial intelligence and digital platforms. And there is a need to develop professional and legislative frameworks that align with these changes.”

Minister of Information,Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi speaks at the event. Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat.

Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al-Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Office and Chairman of the UAE Media Council

Secretary-General of the Arab Media Forum Madi and the Minister of Information honor Zain Kuwait’s Chief Corporate Affairs and Relations Officer Waleed Al Khashti.

For his part, Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al-Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Office and Chairman of the UAE Media Council, called for the adoption of a joint Arab media legislative framework to curb the negative use of digital platforms, emphasizing the need to promote social responsibility and protect freedom of expression from abuse and misinformation. He expressed the UAE’s pride in being named the guest of honor and extended his appreciation to the leadership of Kuwait, especially His Highness the Amir, the Crown Prince and the Prime Minister, for this generous gesture.

Al-Hamed emphasized that the UAE’s media strategy is rooted in a firm belief that the media is a key development partner, reflecting current achievements and envisioning future possibilities, noting that the UAE is working to develop a modern media system that aligns with global progress and expresses Islamic, Arab and human values. Despite the opportunities presented by social media, he warned of the dangers of misuse, particularly in spreading rumors, inciting division, and threatening societal stability, stressing the need for Arab cooperation to confront such challenges.

He concluded by stating that the media is a civilizational weapon and an effective tool for enlightenment and influence, urging it to be used as a bridge for communication between nations and a foundation for building a bright future for the region. In his remarks, Secretary-General of the Arab Media Forum Madi Abdullah Al Khamis praised its leadership in Arab media and its vital role in advancing the industry. He reaffirmed that the forum has always worked to build an independent Arab media framework capable of meeting challenges and driving development.

Al Khamis pointed out that Arab media today faces unprecedented challenges, especially digital transformation, the rise of numerous platforms, and the blurring of truth and fiction, explaining that these developments require a complete reassessment of the media ecosystem, with a focus on responsibility in communication, maintaining professionalism, and updating media tools. He stated “The real challenge lies not only in adapting to change, but in leading it with wisdom, vision, and innovation,” concluding by celebrating Kuwait’s selection as Capital of Arab Culture and Media, describing it as “authentic Arab recognition of Kuwait’s deep-rooted role in supporting free thought and media leadership.”

KUWAIT: Relations between Kuwait and Lebanon are deeply rooted and span decades of political, economic, and humanitarian cooperation. From early diplomatic outreach to enduring mutual support during times of crisis, the two Arab nations have cultivated a partnership built on shared values and regional solidarity. Historical ties date back to the 1920s and 1940s, with formal diplomatic engagements beginning in the 1960s. Lebanon appointed a non-resident ambassador to Kuwait in December 1962, later inaugurating its embassy in 1964. In the same year, Kuwait opened its own embassy in Beirut, appointing Mohammad Al-Ghanim as its first ambassador to oversee bilateral relations.

Lebanon’s firm stance against the 1990 Iraqi invasion of Kuwait remains a pivotal moment in the countries’ relationship. Beirut unequivocally condemned the aggression and called for the immediate withdrawal of Iraqi forces. Years earlier, Kuwait had expressed similar solidarity with Lebanon during its civil war, playing a prominent role in mediating peace efforts. In 1988, Kuwait led a six-member Arab League committee, laying the groundwork for the Taif Agreement, which ultimately ended the conflict.

High-level visits further underscore the strength of ties. In August 1993, the late Amir Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah became the first GCC leader to visit Lebanon since the outbreak of the civil war in 1975. His visit symbolized Kuwait’s appreciation for Lebanon’s support during the invasion. In 1996, then-Crown Prince Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah reaffirmed those sentiments during his official visit.

In May 2010, the late Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah visited Lebanon, during which six cooperation agreements were signed across multiple sectors. Lebanese President Michel Aoun’s 2018 visit to Kuwait further highlighted the sustained diplomatic engagement between the two countries, with discussions held alongside His Highness the Amir and other senior officials. Economic cooperation has also been a defining feature of Kuwaiti-Lebanese relations. A number of agreements have been signed over the decades to bolster trade and investment. In 2018, the Kuwaiti-Lebanese Economic Committee and the Lebanese Business Council in Kuwait were established to enhance private sector collaboration, hosting numerous investors and entrepreneurs from both countries.

The Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED) has played a vital role in Lebanon’s development, extending financial support for agricultural and infrastructure projects. Kuwait’s assistance was also evident during international donor gatherings, including the 2018 CEDRE conference in Paris, where it pledged $500 million to aid Lebanon’s economic recovery. That same year, Kuwait reaffirmed its backing of Lebanon’s security forces during the Rome II conference. Kuwait’s humanitarian support has been consistent and swift in times of crisis. During the 2006 Zionist aggression, Kuwait extended aid to the Lebanese people. It also responded promptly to the 2020 Beirut Port explosion and has continuously supported Syrian refugees residing in Lebanon.

Most recently, in November 2024, Kuwait launched an air bridge to deliver urgent humanitarian aid amid Zionist intensified military campaign against Lebanon. In the healthcare sector, the Kuwait Red Crescent Society (KRCS) provided over $500,000 in May 2021 to support Lebanon’s COVID-19 vaccination efforts for both citizens and refugee communities. While the depth of Kuwaiti-Lebanese ties could fill volumes, one constant remains: both nations continue to seek avenues to strengthen their partnership and stand by each other in pursuit of regional stability, prosperity, and mutual growth. — KUNA

KUWAIT: Undersecretaries of information ministries from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states convened in Kuwait on Sunday for a preparatory meeting ahead of the 28th GCC Information Ministers’ Meeting, scheduled for Monday. Chairing the session, Kuwaiti Information Ministry Undersecretary Dr Nasser Muhaisen emphasized the strategic importance of strengthening the Gulf media sector, particularly amid rapid digital transformation. He highlighted the sector’s vital role in safeguarding social cohesion and reinforcing a collective Gulf identity.

Dr Muhaisen conveyed the greetings of Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, expressing his best wishes for a productive meeting. He praised the ongoing efforts to bolster joint Gulf media initiatives and called for continued cooperation to foster a robust and dynamic media landscape.

“This meeting represents a key platform for exchanging expertise, shaping strategic visions, and launching innovative media projects that reflect the ambitions of our societies for a more integrated and prosperous future,” he said. Underscoring the media’s growing influence in shaping public awareness and enhancing regional stability, Dr Muhaisen noted the importance of unified messaging in addressing common challenges and promoting the GCC’s presence on regional and international stages.

Undersecretary of the Ministry of Information, Dr Nasser Muhaisen

Part of the meeting of the Gulf Information Ministries’ Undersecretaries in preparation for the meeting of the Gulf Information Ministers. – KUNA photos

He further stressed the need for developing national media talent, modernizing media-related legislation, and embracing advanced technologies to support the Gulf media message. “These elements are essential for building a sustainable and effective media system,” he said, adding that periodic Gulf meetings serve to align media strategies and support shared objectives. Dr Muhaisen extended his sincere appreciation to Assistant Secretary-General for Economic and Development Affairs at the GCC General Secretariat, Khaled Al-Sunaidi, and the supporting teams for their efforts in organizing the meeting. He concluded by invoking God’s blessings for the success of the gathering under the leadership of the GCC heads of state.

In his address, Al-Sunaidi expressed gratitude to His Highness the Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Chairman of the current session of the GCC Supreme Council, for Kuwait’s steadfast support of joint Gulf initiatives, particularly in the media sector. He also congratulated Sheikh Mubarak Fahad Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah on his appointment as Director-General of the Joint Program Production Institution, wishing him success in his new role and affirming the Secretariat’s commitment to advancing collaborative media efforts.

Al-Sunaidi highlighted several key topics on the meeting’s agenda, including proposed initiatives under the GCC’s Joint Media Cooperation Strategic Plan (2023–2030). These include Kuwait’s proposals for the Excellence and Electronic Publishing Award, the “Gulf of Pride and Glory” and “Behind the Scenes” programs, enhanced cooperation among radio and television libraries, and the integration of artificial intelligence in media. He also cited additional proposals from the Secretariat, such as establishing a Gulf Media Forum, launching a media leaders initiative, and promoting Gulf media dialogues, all aimed at elevating regional media collaboration and innovation. — KUNA