Kuwait and Turkey Strengthen Ties with Erdogan’s Official Visit

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Turkey Abdulaziz Al-Adwani affirmed that relations between Kuwait and Turkey have remained close, dynamic, and deeply rooted since their establishment six decades ago. Speaking ahead of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s official visit to Kuwait, Ambassador Al-Adwani noted that the visit reflects both nations’ continued commitment to strengthening cooperation and mutual understanding. The visit follows the official trip made by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to Turkey in May last year, highlighting the ongoing exchange of high-level visits that reinforce bilateral ties.

Al-Adwani emphasized that the sustained diplomatic engagement between Kuwait and Turkey, which celebrated 60 years of diplomatic relations last year, demonstrates their shared desire to deepen political, economic, and development partnerships. He praised Turkey’s historical support for international legitimacy, especially its stance alongside Kuwait during the 1990 Iraqi invasion. Since 2000, economic cooperation between the two nations has seen significant growth, reflecting the strength of their longstanding partnership.

The ambassador highlighted that Kuwait and Turkey coordinate closely on regional and international issues through the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Gulf-Turkey Cooperation Council. Frequent exchanges between senior officials aim to boost cooperation across multiple sectors. He also commended the mutual assistance offered during crises, noting that Turkey provided medical aid to Kuwait during the COVID-19 pandemic, while Kuwait swiftly extended help following the devastating 2023 earthquakes in Turkey.

Recalling the directives of the late Amir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Al-Adwani noted that an air bridge was established to deliver urgent humanitarian aid, including rescue teams and medical crews, to assist earthquake victims in Turkey. The Amir also ordered a $30 million donation to support affected people in Turkey and Syria, with total government and public contributions reaching $97.7 million. These efforts reflect the deep humanitarian bonds between the two nations.

The ambassador further highlighted the partnership between Turkey and the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED). The Fund provided its first loan to Turkey in 1979 for an electricity transmission project across the Bosphorus Strait, marking Kuwait’s initial financing initiative in the country. Since then, collaboration has expanded to sectors including energy, water, sanitation, transport, and communications. In 2016, KFAED signed an agreement to provide a $20 million grant supporting Syrian refugee programs, particularly in health and education, as part of Kuwait’s $500 million pledge during the Third Donors’ Conference in 2015.

Ambassador Al-Adwani emphasized that President Erdogan’s visit signifies a continuation of the strong, brotherly relations between Kuwait and Turkey. The visit underscores mutual respect, shared humanitarian values, and political principles aimed at promoting peace and prosperity. President Erdogan and his delegation arrived in Kuwait on Tuesday for an official visit, holding talks with His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. This visit is part of a Gulf tour that also includes Qatar and Oman, taking place from October 21 to 23, further reinforcing cooperation and friendship across the region.