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UAE, Kuwait Stress Gulf Cooperation

The UAE President and Kuwait Emir discussed on pursuing the shared objectives of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, with a particular focus on bolstering regional security and stability….reports Asian Lite News

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan held discussions with Kuwait Emir His Highness Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to review the deep-rooted relations between the two countries and their peoples. The two leaders also exchanged views on a number of regional and international issues of shared interest.

The meeting took place at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi, where H.H. Sheikh Mohamed welcomed H.H. Sheikh Mishal and his delegation to their second home, the UAE. The President extended his best wishes to the Kuwaiti Emir in leading his country and people to continued progress and prosperity.

They discussed various aspects of the relationship between the two countries, focusing particularly on the economic, trade, investment, and developmental sectors. They noted that collaboration across these areas has seen significant growth in recent years, in line with the sustainable development goals of both countries and their aspirations for ongoing progress.

The two leaders explored the importance of fostering collaboration across the Gulf in response to the challenges confronting both the region and the wider world. Their discussions centred on pursuing the shared objectives of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations and their peoples, with a particular focus on bolstering regional security and stability. They highlighted that the UAE and Kuwait stand as key supporters of these collective efforts, affirming their dedication to reinforcing this cooperative framework for the benefit of all GCC communities.

President Sheikh Mohamed noted that the Emir of Kuwait’s Gulf tour demonstrates his commitment to promoting cooperation among Gulf countries, strengthening regional unity, and supporting the shared aspirations of the Gulf peoples for unity and collaboration, especially in light of the current regional difficulties. He reaffirmed that the UAE is fully supportive of this approach and considers it an essential part of its strategic policy.

Sheikh Mohamed also expressed his confidence in the leadership and vision of Sheikh Mishal as he continues to guide Kuwait along the path of progress established by the nation’s founders. He remarked that their significant achievements have had an impact not just in Kuwait but across the entire Gulf region, leaving a lasting legacy, especially in education and healthcare. This enduring contribution, he noted, will forever be cherished and remembered by the people of the UAE and the broader Gulf community.

The two sides emphasised that the relationship between their countries and citizens stems from a longstanding brotherhood, anchored in mutual respect and understanding. This connection is further strengthened by their joint commitment to common goals and a united future. Their Highnesses reiterated their keenness to deepen these bonds to support both the UAE and Kuwait in achieving their shared objectives.

The Kuwait Emir wrote an entry in the Qasr Al Watan VIP guestbook, expressing his appreciation to the UAE’s leadership, government, and people for the warm reception and generous hospitality received by himself and his accompanying delegation. This hospitality, he said, reflected the deep-rooted ties of friendship between the two countries and their people. His Highness affirmed Kuwait’s commitment to enhancing and developing bilateral relations in all areas, praying to God to maintain security, stability, and prosperity in the UAE under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Later, Sheikh Mohamed hosted a luncheon for Sheikh Mishal and the Kuwaiti delegation, which was comprised of several sheikhs and senior officials.

Order of Zayed Bestowed Upon Emir

President Sheikh Mohamed yesterday awarded Sheikh Mishal the Order of Zayed in appreciation of the strong fraternal relations that unite the two countries and the efforts of the Emir of Kuwait to enhance these ties. This award is the highest honour bestowed by the UAE on heads of state, kings, and leaders.

Sheikh Mishal awarded Sheikh Mohamed the Order of Mubarak the Great in appreciation of latter’s role in strengthening the fraternal relations between the two countries and for his dedicated efforts to foster unity and solidarity among member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council.

The UAE President remarked that bestowing the Order of Zayed upon the Emir reflects the nation’s deep respect and pride in the fraternal ties between the UAE and Kuwait, as well as in His Highness the Emir’s efforts to enhance these relations in numerous areas.

Sheikh Mohamed conveyed his “heartfelt wishes” for continued progress and prosperity to the Emir of Kuwait and the brotherly Kuwaiti people. He also expressed his pride in receiving the Order of Mubarak the Great, a symbol that deeply reflects the strong and enduring bonds between their nations and peoples.

In turn, Sheikh Mishal expressed his appreciation to Sheikh Mohamed and his pride in receiving this order, named after the UAE’s founder, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, as it embodies the deep-rooted relations between the two countries.

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Kuwait Emir Welcomes RAK Ruler

The Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah congratulated the Emir of Kuwait on assuming power…reports Asian Lite News

His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, Emir of Kuwait, received at Bayan Palace today, H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, during his official visit to the State of Kuwait.

H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr conveyed the greetings of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to the Emir of Kuwait, and his wishes of further progress and prosperity to the State of Kuwait and its people.

In turn, the Emir of Kuwait conveyed his greetings to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and his wishes of further progress and prosperity to the UAE and its people.

The Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah congratulated the Emir of Kuwait on assuming power, wishing him success in continuing the journey of development and progress of the State of Kuwait.

During the meeting, the two sides exchanged fraternal talks that reflect the depth of the historical UAE-Kuwait ties, and discussed several issues of mutual interest. They also reviewed bilateral relations and ways of advancing them to serve their mutual benefit.

The delegation accompanying H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr included Sheikh Ahmed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Public Services Department in Ras Al Khaimah; Sheikh Saqr bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Ras Al Khaimah Ceramics Company; along a number of senior officials.

The Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah arrived in the State of Kuwait today on an official visit, where he was received by Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, Minister of Amiri Diwan Affairs; Dr. Matar Hamed Al Neyadi, the UAE Ambassador to Kuwait, and a number of officials.

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UAE Rulers Congratulate New Emir of Kuwait

Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah officially assumed the role of Emir of Kuwait, taking an oath before the Kuwaiti National Assembly….reports Asian Lite News

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent a message of congratulations to His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Emir of the State of Kuwait, on the occasion of assuming power in the State of Kuwait.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, also dispatched similar messages to His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah on the same occasion.

Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah officially assumed the role of Emir of Kuwait, taking an oath before the Kuwaiti National Assembly.

He succeeds the late Emir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, who passed away at the age of 86 on December 16. Sheikh Mishal is the 17th ruler of the oil-rich Gulf state.

In his speech to the parliament, Sheikh Mishal on Wednesday emphasised “the importance of accountability within the framework of the law” for actions that neglect the interests of the citizens, Xinhua news agency reported.

During the speech, the 83-year-old Emir also urged a review of the current situation in terms of security, economy, and living standards, and reaffirmed his commitment to the Gulf and international cooperation.

According to Kuwait’s constitution, the Emir must take the oath before the Parliament before assuming his powers.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates have sent congratulatory cables to His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Emir of the State of Kuwait, on the occasion of assuming power in the State of Kuwait.

The messages were sent by Their Highnesses Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi of Sharjah, Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi of Ajman, Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi of Fujairah, Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla of Umm Al Qaiwain, and Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi of Ras Al Khaimah.

Crown Princes and deputy rulers also sent similar cables to the Emir of Kuwait.

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Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah Takes the Helm as Kuwait’s Emir

Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah succeeds the late Emir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, who passed away at the age of 86 on December 16….reports Asian Lite News

Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah officially assumed the role of Emir of Kuwait, taking an oath before the Kuwaiti National Assembly.

He succeeds the late Emir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, who passed away at the age of 86 on December 16. Sheikh Mishal is the 17th ruler of the oil-rich Gulf state.

In his speech to the parliament, Sheikh Mishal on Wednesday emphasised “the importance of accountability within the framework of the law” for actions that neglect the interests of the citizens, Xinhua news agency reported.

During the speech, the 83-year-old Emir also urged a review of the current situation in terms of security, economy, and living standards, and reaffirmed his commitment to the Gulf and international cooperation.

According to Kuwait’s constitution, the Emir must take the oath before the Parliament before assuming his powers.

ALSO READ: UN Chief Honours Late Kuwaiti Emir

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UN Chief Honours Late Kuwaiti Emir


Guterres remarked that Sheikh Nawaf was recognized as an Emir embodying wisdom, forgiveness, and peace—qualities that, unfortunately, are scarce…reports Asian Lite News

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres paid tribute to Kuwait’s ruling Emir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, who died last week at the age of 86.

Sheikh Nawaf dedicated his life to the people of Kuwait. For nearly six decades, on the domestic and global stages, he served at the highest levels of government, across a diverse range of ministerial positions. Far beyond Kuwait’s borders, he was a respected statesman, Guterres told a UN General Assembly plenary meeting on Wednesday dedicated to the memory of the late Emir.

“He was a determined champion of preventive diplomacy — an approach that helped define Kuwait’s role across the Gulf region and around the world. He was a steadfast voice of regional and global stability, peace and multilateralism — the very values and goals that give life to this chamber (of the General Assembly),” he said.

“He was a generous humanitarian, helping to ease human suffering and mobilise support for millions of people in need around the region and the world. And his personal commitment to collective solutions to forge peace remains an inspiration,” the UN Chief added.

Sheikh Nawaf was seen as an Emir of wisdom, forgiveness and peace — qualities that are in tragically short supply, said Guterres.

“As we look around the world today, we see a planet in turmoil. Conflicts, climate catastrophe, mistrust, inequalities and injustice are driving people, countries and entire regions apart. As we honour the memory of Sheikh Nawaf today, let us also remember our own obligations … to the principles for which he stood: to be wise in our decisions and actions, recognising the impact they have on the world around us, and on future generations; to be forgiving of one another, accepting of our differences, understanding of one another’s points of view, and respectful of every person’s worth; and to be willing to collaborate and compromise to forge a world of peace that our children deserve. This is our solemn responsibility, and one that Sheikh Nawaf clearly demonstrated through his words and his actions.”

The UN Chief extended his condolences to the late Emir’s family and the government and people of Kuwait, Xinhua news agency reported.

He extended his best wishes to the late Emir’s brother Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, who has taken over the leadership of Kuwait.

Guterres reaffirmed the United Nations’ willingness to continue its strong partnership and friendship with Kuwait.

ALSO READ: ‘Indian Community in Kuwait Mourn Emir’s Compassionate Care’

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‘Indian Community in Kuwait Mourn Emir’s Compassionate Care’

Hardeep Singh Puri further emphasised that India stands united in mourning with the leadership and the people of Kuwait….reports Asian Lite News

India’s Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, visited Kuwait as Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s special envoy to pay condolences to Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah on behalf of India and stressed that the large Indian expatriate community in Kuwait will miss the presence and compassionate care of Kuwait’s Emir.

Hardeep Singh Puri also delivered personal letters of condolences from President Droupadi Murmu and PM Modi to the new Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.

Taking to his social media X, Puri stated, “Visited Kuwait as PM Sh @narendramodi Ji’s Special Envoy to pay condolences on behalf of the Government & people of India, & deliver personal letters of condolences from the President & Prime Minister of India to His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the new Amir on the sad demise of the visionary leader His Highness Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.”

“The large Indian expatriate community in Kuwait will miss the presence and compassionate care of the late leader,” he added.

Hardeep Singh Puri further emphasised that India stands united in mourning with the leadership and the people of Kuwait.

Earlier on Sunday, Puri, along with Indian Embassy officials, paid homage to Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.

The Minister and the Indian community in Kuwait observed a 2-minute silence.

The Indian government has declared state mourning across the country on Sunday as a mark of respect for the departed leader. As a part of state mourning, the Indian Tricolour is being flown at half-mast throughout the country on all buildings where it is flown regularly.

The Indian Tricolour is also being flown at half-mast at all buildings of Indian high commissions, embassies, consulates and India Houses all over the world. All official entertainment activities have been cancelled for today.

On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that he is “deeply saddened” to learn about the unfortunate demise of the Emir of Kuwait.

In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, “Deeply saddened to learn about the unfortunate demise of His Highness Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. We convey our deepest condolences to the Royal family, the leadership and the people of Kuwait.”

Kuwait Emir Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah died at the age of 86 on Saturday, according to Al Jazeera. The cause of his death is not known yet. (ANI)

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Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Nawaf laid to rest in private ceremony

On Monday and Tuesday, the new emir will receive condolences from the general population….reports Asian Lite News

Kuwait’s Emir, Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Sabah, 86, who passed away on Saturday, was laid to rest in a private ceremony today, Al Jazeera reported.

On Sunday, state television broadcast a prayer ritual at the Bilal bin Rabah mosque in Kuwait City and a burial procession to the Sulaibikhat cemetery for the emir, both of which were attended by only the royal family.

Outside of the al-Sabah family, only Parliament Speaker Ahmed al-Sadoun was permitted to attend the mosque prayers.

Kuwait’s new emir, 83-year-old Sheikh Meshaal al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah, was spotted escorting his half-brother’s coffin, which was covered in a Kuwaiti flag, at the event, according to Al Jazeera.

On Monday and Tuesday, the new emir will receive condolences from the general population.

A 40-day period of mourning has begun, and government offices will be closed for three days until Tuesday. Flags were flown at half-mast over Kuwait City, while giant digital billboards presented images of the late king.

Kuwait Emir Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah died at the age of 86 on Saturday, according to Al Jazeera.

“With great sadness and sorrow, we–the Kuwaiti people, the Arab and Islamic nations, and the friendly peoples of the world–mourn the late His Highness the Emir, Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, who passed away to his Lord today,” Sheikh Mohammed Abdullah Al Sabah, the minister of his emiri court, said in a statement on Saturday as it aired on state television, according to Al Jazeera.

Sheikh Nawaf was sworn-in in September 2020, following the death in the United States of his half-brother, Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah, at the age of 91.

Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Sabah, his predecessor and brother, had reigned for 14 years and was a crucial factor in developing the Arab state’s foreign policy. He died in September 2020, at the age of 91, according to Al Jazeera.

Sheikh Nawaf maintained positions of influence for decades before ascending to the throne. In 2006, he was named heir apparent, and he was acting as defence minister when Iraqi soldiers invaded the oil-rich emirate in 1990. In the wake of threats from armed organisations, he also served as interior minister.

The Indian government has declared state mourning across the country on Sunday as a mark of respect for the departed leader. As a part of state mourning, the Indian Tricolour is being flown at half-mast throughout the country on all buildings where it is flown regularly.

The Indian Tricolour is also being flown at half-mast at all buildings of Indian high commissions, embassies, consulates and India Houses all over the world. All official entertainment activities have been cancelled for today.

In the press release, the Ministry of External Affairs said, “In the demise of His Highness Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Kuwait has lost a visionary leader who took the country towards progress and prosperity. India and Kuwait maintained close and friendly relations under the leadership of the late Amir.”

“He was steadfast in guiding and strengthening bilateral engagements for the mutual benefit of the people of the two countries. The large Indian expatriate community in Kuwait will miss his presence and compassionate care,” it added.

On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that he is “deeply saddened” to learn about the unfortunate demise of the Emir of Kuwait.

In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, “Deeply saddened to learn about the unfortunate demise of His Highness Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. We convey our deepest condolences to the Royal family, the leadership and the people of Kuwait.”

Meanwhile, Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri alongwith Indian Embassy officials paid homage to Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah today.

The Minister and the Indian community in Kuwait observed a 2-minute silence.

Hardeep Singh Puri has travelled to Kuwait to pay condolences on behalf of the government and the people of India. (ANI)

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Kuwait Emir Sheikh Nawaf Dies At 86

Kuwaiti authorities have announced the start of a 40-day official mourning period and a three-day closure of government departments.

Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah died at the age of 86 on Saturday, according to Al Jazeera.

The cause of his death is not known yet. The authorities have announced the start of a 40-day official mourning period and a three-day closure of government departments.

“With great sadness and sorrow, we–the Kuwaiti people, the Arab and Islamic nations, and the friendly peoples of the world–mourn the late His Highness the Emir, Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, who passed away to his Lord today,” Sheikh Mohammed Abdullah Al Sabah, the minister of his emiri court, said in a statement on Saturday as it aired on state television, according to Al Jazeera.

Sheikh Nawaf was sworn-in in September 2020, following the death in the United States of his half-brother, Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah, at the age of 91.

Sheikh Meshal Al Ahmad Al Jaber, Kuwait’s deputy ruler and half-brother, is said to be in a position to succeed him as ruler; however, no formal declaration has been made yet, Al Jazeera reported.

Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah speaks at the inauguration of the 16th Legislative Term of the National Assembly (parliament) in Kuwait City, Kuwait, on Dec. 15, 2020. (Photo by Asad/Xinhua/ians)

Sheikh Nawaf maintained positions of influence for decades before ascending to the throne.

In 2006, he was named heir apparent, and he was acting as defence minister when Iraqi soldiers invaded the oil-rich emirate in 1990. In the wake of threats from armed organisations, he also served as interior minister.

Sheikh Nawaf was sent to the hospital in late November for an undisclosed ailment, according to the state news agency KUNA.

He was well-liked within the ruling al-Sabah family, had a reputation for humility, and kept a low profile. (ANI)

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Kuwait Deports Indian Nurses for Pro-Israel Posts

Union Minister of State for External Affairs V. Muraleedharan on Tuesday said that one Malayalee nurse has already been deported…reports Asian Lite News

Two nurses from Kerala who were working in Kuwait have been deported for putting up a social media post in support of Israel.

Union Minister of State for External Affairs V. Muraleedharan on Tuesday said that one Malayalee nurse has already been deported. 

“While one nurse has already been deported, another Malayalee nurse has been given the deportation order. We have asked the Indian Embassy in Kuwait to give her all the necessary assistance,” said Muraleedharan. 

He also pointed out that plans are underway to bring out a directive on social media posts for all Indians to ensure that they follow the guidelines of the respective countries.

Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Sheikh Salem Abdullah Al-Jaber Al-Sabah has reiterated Kuwait’s refusal to normalise relations with Israel “unless a future Palestinian state is established in line with international resolutions”.

He made the remarks at a press conference held at the headquarters of the Foreign Ministry on Sunday, Xinhua news agency reported.

The Minister added that it is his responsibility to maintain Kuwait’s security and interests abroad by maintaining relations with friendly, brotherly and allied countries.

“The Palestinian issue is our first issue, without any ambiguity… Kuwait has never deviated from the path,” he said, adding that the war Israel waged against Gaza is retaliatory, not defensive.

The Kuwaiti top diplomat called for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza, providing assistance to the besieged enclave and ultimately resolving the Palestinian issue through the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders.

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No Ties with Israel Until Palestine Finds Peace: Kuwait

The Kuwaiti top diplomat called for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza…reports Asian Lite News

Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Sheikh Salem Abdullah Al-Jaber Al-Sabah has reiterated Kuwait’s refusal to normalise relations with Israel “unless a future Palestinian state is established in line with international resolutions”.

He made the remarks at a press conference held at the headquarters of the Foreign Ministry on Sunday, Xinhua news agency reported.

The Minister added that it is his responsibility to maintain Kuwait’s security and interests abroad by maintaining relations with friendly, brotherly and allied countries.

“The Palestinian issue is our first issue, without any ambiguity… Kuwait has never deviated from the path,” he said, adding that the war Israel waged against Gaza is retaliatory, not defensive.

The Kuwaiti top diplomat called for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza, providing assistance to the besieged enclave and ultimately resolving the Palestinian issue through the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders.

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