Tokyo: Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike and her accompanying delegation visited the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), where they were welcomed by KISR Director General Dr. Faisal Al-Humaidan. The visit is considered a significant step in strengthening research and scientific collaboration between KISR and Japanese institutions, focusing on sustainability, environment, energy, innovation, and women's empowerment in science and technology.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Dr. Al-Humaidan emphasized the historical ties between KISR and Japanese counterparts, which date back to the institute's establishment in 1967 under the New Oil Concession Agreement. This agreement was signed in the onshore Neutral Zone in 1958 between the Government of the State of Kuwait and the Arab Oil Company of Japan, with KISR's initial headquarters located at the company's premises in Kuwait City.
Dr. Al-Humaidan highlighted ongoing cooperation between KISR and Japanese institutions, which has persisted through joint research projects, expertise exchange, and learning from Japan's experiences in advanced technology, energy, and water management. This partnership has consistently inspired advanced research and the adoption of nanotechnology.
The Tokyo Governor's visit was seen as an opportunity to expand cooperation and explore new prospects in applied research and technological development. This aligns with KISR's new strategy and "New Kuwait 2035," which emphasizes scientific research and innovation as central to socioeconomic development.
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Al-Humaidan stated that KISR welcomes all initiatives enhancing research and technological collaboration with advanced nations, particularly Japan. He believes that integrating global expertise with Kuwait's research and development efforts will open new avenues for development and sustainability and strengthen Kuwait's R and D presence on a broader global scale.