KUWAIT CITY: Kuwait's Ambassador to China, Jassim Al-Najim, has confirmed that Kuwaiti-Chinese relations represent a unique model of integration and cooperation that aligns with the aspirations of both countries' leaderships since diplomatic ties were established in March 1971. According to Kuwait News Agency, Ambassador Al-Najim highlighted in an exclusive interview that the strategic partnership formed in 2018 marked a new era of constructive cooperation and friendship. This collaboration has significantly expanded economic relations, with trade between Kuwait and China reaching approximately USD 22 billion in 2023. This makes China Kuwait's largest trading partner for the ninth consecutive year. Ambassador Al-Najim pointed out that Kuwait was the first country in the Middle East to sign a cooperation document with China under the "Belt and Road Initiative" in June 2014, an initiative launched by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2013. Ambassador Al-Najim elaborated on China's participation in major project s that align with Kuwait's Vision 2035, including the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port, the Shuqaiya Renewable Energy Complex, and parts of the New Kuwait International Airport. Additionally, Chinese companies contributed to the construction of Kuwait's Central Bank's new headquarters. He also emphasized the important visit by His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, to China in September 2023. This visit resulted in the signing of seven memorandums of understanding, including a joint statement on a five-year plan for bilateral cooperation from 2024 to 2028, and agreements in various sectors such as housing, energy, environmental infrastructure, and economic zones. On the energy front, Ambassador Al-Najim praised China's role as a key partner in Kuwait's renewable energy projects, particularly in the Shuqaiya Renewable Energy Plant. He noted that Chinese companies, with their advanced technology in solar panels and wind turbines, support Kuwait's transition to clean energy. He also me ntioned Kuwait's complete 5G network coverage, facilitated by Chinese telecom companies, and expressed optimism about future 6G developments. Regarding digitalization, Al-Najim highlighted joint projects in IT infrastructure and artificial intelligence, supported by a memorandum of understanding to enhance cooperation in the digital economy, signed in May. This agreement aims to bolster technological collaboration between the two countries. Al-Najim also discussed ongoing discussions to establish a joint free trade area, reflecting the economic cooperation between Kuwait and China. Culturally, he noted growth in student exchanges and academic cooperation, supported by bilateral agreements and scholarship programs. He highlighted the opening of China's first cultural center in Kuwait and the establishment of a smart classroom for teaching Chinese language in collaboration with Kuwait University. In terms of international relations, Al-Najim stated that China emphasizes respecting international agreements an d resolving border disputes peacefully. On security issues, he noted the developing cooperation in addressing security challenges such as terrorism and enhancing cybersecurity with China's technological expertise.
