I would like to convey the State of Kuwait’s deep appreciation for the outstanding efforts dedicated to organizing the 10th edition of the Belt and Road Summit, held in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region under the joint sponsorship of the local government and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council.

     Kuwait remains committed to active and distinguished participation in support of the summit’s objectives, recognizing its vital role within the broader Belt and Road Initiative launched by His Excellency President Xi Jinping in 2013. Kuwait was among the first nations to join the initiative in 2014, embracing its principles of connectivity, openness, mutual respect, and shared prosperity. These values resonate strongly with the objectives of Kuwait’s Vision 2035, which prioritizes economic openness, infrastructure advancement, cross-border technological collaboration, and capacity building.

     The participation of the State of Kuwait in the 10th Belt and Road Summit, through the attendance of a high-level delegation comprising representatives from the public sector and various private sector institutions, reflects our firm commitment to the core principles of the initiative. It also underscores our dedication to advancing key sectors and implementing strategic development projects that cover a wide range of vital areas.

     Kuwait further affirms its focus on emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and green technology, while leveraging the expertise of leading and innovative companies operating globally in these domains. The government also supports the promotion of trade, investment, innovation, and talent development—recognized as essential drivers for capacity building, community advancement, and the development of modern smart cities. Such efforts represent an effective pathway toward delivering optimal national and global solutions, enhancing service delivery, improving quality of life, and achieving sustainable growth.

     We fully recognise that the world today has become increasingly interconnected, underscoring the critical importance of comprehensive cooperation in achieving digital transformation, which serves as a cornerstone for advanced industries, trade, investment, and the development and progress of societies and nations.

     We are also aware of the growing challenges associated with the widening of the digital gap, the increased risks of cybersecurity threats, the volatility in regional and global markets, and the complexities arising from geopolitical tensions and competition. These challenges require a collective response, grounded in a spirit of shared responsibility, through open dialogue and constructive collaboration, global partnerships based on the principles of equality and mutual respect, while ensuring the security and resilience of supply chains and shipping routes, and fostering the exchange of technology, the flow of capital, data, talent, and goods—all of which are essential to achieving shared prosperity.

     With regard to digital solution developers and technology providers, the State of Kuwait continues to uphold a steadfast policy of openness toward all nations, grounded in the belief that progress and development are driven by meaningful exchange and mutual benefit. Through its modern foreign investment laws and the efforts of its institutions dedicated to trade, industry, investment, alongside the active role of the private sector, Kuwait invites all regional and international partners in commerce, investment, and technology to seize the opportunities offered by its dynamic, secure, and investor-friendly economic environment, which include unique incentives and guarantees.

     Kuwait also calls upon its partners to contribute to the implementation of strategic development plans and vital projects under Kuwait Vision 2035. These include infrastructure development, the development and smart management of smart cities through advanced networks and digital technologies, cloud computing, fintech, cross-border exchanges, renewable energy, telecommunications, cybersecurity, trade facilitation, clean transport, smart healthcare and pharmaceuticals, advanced education, scientific research, training, knowledge transfer, and capacity building—among other key sectors.

     The State of Kuwait, with its stability, security, and unique strategic location in the Arabian Gulf, coupled with its strong financial standing and substantial investment capacity, offers a promising and secure investment climate. Supported by a diverse institutional framework, progressive legislation, and active engagement with countries and cities around the world, Kuwait continues to pursue its ambition of advancing economic inclusion through digitization and talent development. These attributes collectively grant Kuwait a distinctive appeal on both regional and global levels, attracting leading international, strategic, and specialized companies.

     We take this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and express our readiness to facilitate communication, promote exchanges, convey mutual interests, and empower shared benefits. We extend our sincere appreciation to the Government of Hong Kong and all entities involved in organizing this distinguished forum, wishing them continued success and prosperity. To all participants, we convey our best wishes for fruitful and equitable outcomes.

With sincere regards,

Consul General of the State of Kuwait to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Macao Special Administrative Region in the People's Republic of China

Ambassador / Naser S Al-Ghanim

     Some may wonder about the reasons that prompted me to write this article at this particular time. To be candid, it is not merely part of my professional duty, but rather something beyond that. Recently, I have received multiple requests from various media outlets with whom we strive to maintain strong relations. However, due to time constraints, I may not always be able to dedicate sufficient time to conduct interviews with each of them, despite our deep respect and appreciation for their role in seeking clarifications and providing coverage of key events and developments.

     Moreover, given the significance of the occasion, one that pertains to the advancement of Kuwait’s relations with the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Macao Special Administrative Region, and the friendly People's Republic of China in general, I am particularly keen to ensure that we approach this matter with positivity and optimism, sharing all relevant updates in a constructive manner.

     In line with Kuwait’s foreign policy approach and its longstanding history of expanding relations with friendly nations and regions, Kuwaiti diplomacy consistently adheres to principles of transparency and credibility in establishing and strengthening international ties. The event under discussion is the official visit of The Honourable, Mr. John Lee Ka-Chiu, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, to the State of Kuwait as part of his second Middle East official visit, which also included the State of Qatar, from 10-14 May 2025.

     The Honourable, Mr. John Lee has personally led a high-profile delegation, comprising of senior officials from the Hong Kong government, alongside a large group of representatives of government bodies, institutions, organisations, and business leaders from different sectors in Hong Kong and mainland China, as well as leaders and representatives of the major chambers of commerce, universities, research & technology centres, and legal professionals. This delegation carries significant constructive and strategic implications. Since the initial consultations and coordination efforts for this important visit, many have considered it a historic milestone in strengthening bilateral relations. From the outset, the following objectives were clearly defined:

     - This esteemed visit serves as a foundation for establishing a higher level of bilateral relations, and provides a fertile ground for enhancing mutual cooperation. It also reflects the depth of relations and friendships between both parties, as well as the shared will built upon solid principles of understanding, mutual respect, and common interests.

     - Further enhancing and consolidating relations between the two governments following the official establishment of relations since the opening of the Consulate General of the State of Kuwait in the Hong Kong SAR on June 30, 1999. Additionally, there are longstanding ties through traders and investors who have been engaging with Hong Kong for many years.

     -Building on past achievements in strengthening bilateral relations, this initiative seeks to explore new opportunities within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative. Both sides can leverage their distinct advantages, particularly Hong Kong's unique position under the "One Country, Two Systems" principle, which grants it significant support from the central government.

     A key aspect of this collaboration is the integration and synergy between Hong Kong and mainland Chinese cities and enterprises, including cooperation within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. This partnership will open doors to new, diverse, and comprehensive opportunities, keeping pace with advancements in technology and innovation. By deepening this cooperation, both sides will be better equipped to tackle global economic challenges, ensuring a more resilient and forward-looking approach to sustainable development.

     - Expanding bilateral relations through building a communication network with officials and stakeholders, and across all sectors, institutions and vital entities. Relevant authorities from various government agencies and organizations on both sides continue to explore ways to develop and strengthen these relations, following up on discussions related to several proposed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). The aim is to reach agreements and prepare them for signing on future occasions in areas such as agricultural development, fisheries, environmental protection, customs cooperation and facilitation of shipping and cargo clearance, collaboration in civil aviation and air freight with Kuwait Airways and Hong Kong airport authority, education and higher education including scholarships, maritime navigation and shipping, investment and trade promotion, scientific research, technology, and innovation, among other fields.

     At the outset of the visit of The Honorable, Mr. John Lee and his accompanying delegation to the State of Kuwait, they were received by His Highness the Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, at the esteemed Bayan Palace. The meeting was attended by the Acting Prime Minister, His Excellency Sheikh Fahad Yusuf Saud Al-Sabah.

     The Acting Prime Minister held a formal discussion with the visiting delegation, attended by several government members and senior officials in the country, at Bayan Palace on 13 May 2025. The talks focused on strengthening and developing bilateral relations, fostering alignment in visions and interests, and expanding cooperation across various fields of mutual interest.

     During the meeting, two MoUs were signed regarding close collaboration in investment promotion, coordination to explore investment opportunities, trade exchanges, and other areas. Among those participating in the discussions were His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Meshaal Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Director General of the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority, and His Excellency Mr. Khalifa Abdullah Al-Ajeel, Minister of Commerce and Industry of Kuwait.

     The meetings and visits conducted by the delegation yielded positive results, culminating in the signing of 24 MoUs and agreements with various government entities, as well as the private sector and major companies. They covered areas such as trade and investment, financial services, technology, higher education, legal cooperation, customs facilitation, shipping and aviation, among other key sectors.

     These efforts have led to a remarkable success, as The Honorable Mr. John Lee laid out the following achievements:

     - The visit strengthened the relations between the Governments of the State of Kuwait, the State of Qatar, and the Hong Kong SAR, fostering a consensus on cooperation among these parties.

     - It resulted in the signing of a total of 59 MoUs and agreements, including 35 signed with the State of Qatar, and 24 with the State of Kuwait, covering a variety of sectors, and laying a strong foundation for multilateral cooperation.

     - Deepening mutual understanding and strengthening trade networks, as members of the delegation expanded their connections and communication channels. They have also highlighted the strengths and opportunities offered by the Hong Kong SAR and mainland China. In this context, Mr. Steve CHUANG, Chairman of the Hong Kong Federation of Industries, has expressed his anticipation for the establishment of a platform to facilitate connections between businesses in Hong Kong and Kuwait. He hopes that this platform will serve as the ideal intermediary in fostering cooperation and enhancing trade and investment opportunities between the two economies.

     - The Honorable Mr. John Lee also underscored the significance of including more than 20 representatives from mainland Chinese companies as part of the delegation, reflecting the synergy between the HKSAR and mainland China. As the unique role of Hong Kong was highlighted within the framework of the "One Country, Two Systems" principle, emphasizing its position as a "Super Connector” and “Super Value adder”, this collaboration is seen as facilitating comprehensive supply chain solutions for the Middle East and reinforcing its strategic importance in global trade and commerce.

     In this regard, The Chief Executive called for leveraging Hong Kong’s advantages as an international financial hub, as well as its strength in innovation and technology, to explore investment and business opportunities, including the prospect of establishing an office for the Kuwait Investment Authority in Hong Kong to facilitate deeper financial cooperation. He also emphasized the need to enhance high-quality development in collaboration with the Belt and Road Initiative enterprises, highlighting that Hong Kong and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries share common visions and objectives.

     - The visit enhanced the relations between HKSAR and the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council, paving the way for deeper collaboration and extensive opportunities. The Honorable Mr. John Lee has also recalled his visits to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates in February 2023, as the two Middle East visits collectively encompass two-thirds of the GCC countries.

     Hong Kong continues to recognize the importance of building upon these efforts and expanding its relations with the remaining GCC member states, particularly the Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of Bahrain. In this context, as Kuwait currently holds the presidency of the GCC Supreme Council, the Honorable Mr. John Lee expressed, during his visit to Kuwait, Hong Kong's aspirations to sign a Free Trade Agreement with the GCC.

     - The visit has also strengthened the people-to-people exchanges, as the Chief Executive announced during his visit to the State of Qatar a new agreement granting Hong Kong passport holders a 30-day visa exemption to Qatar. He also revealed that the United Arab Emirates would grant Hong Kong visa-free entry for 30 days, and the Sultanate of Oman will extend its visa exemption period from 10 to 14 days, both effective from May 15, 2025.

     During meetings with esteemed leaders and officials, The Chief Executive expressed his deep appreciation for their vision, aspirations, and understanding of Hong Kong’s unique advantages under the "One Country, Two Systems" principle. He highlighted Hong Kong’s pivotal role as a bridge connecting China and the rest of the world. He also acknowledged the significance of Middle Eastern nations’ efforts to diversify their investments and explore opportunities in China and Hong Kong, in alignment with the global economic shift toward the region. In this context, he emphasized that Hong Kong holds boundless opportunities for collaboration and growth.

     The State of Kuwait and the Hong Kong SAR have long-standing and well-established relations. This was reaffirmed by The Honorable Mr. John Lee during the press conference he held in Kuwait, where he emphasized the strong foundations connecting both parties, along with the broad understanding and extensive cooperation between them. He highlighted that Kuwait was the first country to sign two agreements with Hong Kong, one on Investment Protection and Promotion, and the other on Avoidance of Double Taxation. This demonstrates the long-standing and close ties between the two sides.

     He also praised Kuwait Vision 2035, which encompasses various sectors that perfectly align with Hong Kong’s strategic focus. Kuwait’s vision aims to transform the country into a financial and commercial hub, develop its infrastructure, foster human capital development, enhance healthcare services, and promote sustainability. He also acknowledged Kuwait’s significant role in the region and on the global stage and highlighted the Hong Kong’s status as a financial hub and a trade-shipping center, and Hong Kong government’s commitment to developing the city into a global hub for innovation and technology.

     Furthermore, Hong Kong takes pride in its world-class education system, with five universities ranked among the top 100 globally. The city is also a powerhouse in research and development, with many university research projects receiving high recognition for excellence. The government continues its efforts to elevate Hong Kong’s standing on the international stage. Regarding sustainability, he described it as a key focus for the local government, whether in environmental policies or financial initiatives. He highlighted Hong Kong’s extensive efforts in green finance, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable development.

     As for the relations between the State of Kuwait and the People's Republic of China, they are historic and strategic. Kuwait was the first Gulf nation to establish official diplomatic relations with China in 1971, and their strategic partnership has led China becoming Kuwait's largest trading partner.

     Kuwait has also been a strong supporter of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) since its launch in 2013, and became one of the first nations to engage in implementing BRI objectives through active partnerships and multiple strategic projects.

     I would also like to highlight Kuwait’s dedication to strengthening and expanding its economic, trade, investment, tourism, and other relations with the Macao Special Administrative Region. Both sides continue to work diligently and maintain ongoing communication to review, refine, and finalize several proposed MoUs covering economic and technical cooperation, investment promotion and protection, avoidance of double taxation, and civil aviation services. Looking ahead, both parties remain committed to advancing dialogue and discussions, aiming to successfully conclude and sign these agreements in the near future.

     From our position and role within the two Special Administrative Regions, I would like to express my confidence and optimism regarding the future of these relations, which hold promising opportunities for strengthening mutual relations and exploring new horizons across various areas of shared interest. The State of Kuwait has made significant strides in supporting the national economy and fostering sustainable economic development. This progress presents valuable opportunities to enhance efficiency and implement national projects, including major investment initiatives.

     Kuwait is also committed to knowledge transfer and risk diversification through local projects designed to attract foreign investors and create job opportunities within the country. This approach will empower Kuwaiti youth in the private sector, which serves as a strategic partner in sustainable development plans. Key investment opportunities lie in infrastructure, technology, energy, innovation, artificial intelligence, data centers, housing, healthcare, and community service projects, among other sectors. To ensure these projects are economically viable and attractive to foreign investors, Kuwait offers a modern and conducive legislative environment, along with numerous incentives, such as land grants and tax exemptions. These efforts will facilitate both parties in achieving national and shared objectives, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to diligent and dedicated work. We welcome any opinions or suggestions to strengthen bilateral relations and to build broader channels of communication across all sectors, in alignment with the visionary directives of His Highness the Amir of the State of Kuwait and His Highness the Crown Prince.

With Best Regards,

Consul General of the State of Kuwait to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Macao Special Administrative Region in the People's Republic of China

Ambassador / Naser S Al-Ghanim

     The presence and participation of the Kuwaiti Delegation in the 9th edition of the Belt and Road Summit (B&RI) for 2024, jointly organized by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), which was held on 11-12 September 2024 under the theme “Building a Connected, Innovative and Green Belt and Road”, has cemented the bilateral relations between the State of Kuwait and the HKSAR, and the People's Republic of China.

     The summit gave a valuable opportunity for participants to learn about the goals, objectives, and major cooperation projects created by this global initiative, which the State of Kuwait was one of the first countries to join when it was launched in 2013. The summit has provided an insight into the global paths and trends related to investment, international trade, manufacturing, innovation & technology, as well as a platform for exchanging views and expertise around the most effective and efficient ways to enhance bilateral and collective relations, despite the uncertainty caused by challenges facing some economies, and those arising from geopolitical tensions.

     The attendees and participants of the summit have grasped the true value of the HKSAR, and the critical role it plays in realizing the vision of the B&RI, as Hong Kong is one of the most important cities in the Greater Bay Area, and is the main gateway connecting the world to the vast and diverse markets in mainland China. Hong Kong, as the country’s most open and international city, is perfectly positioned to facilitate the lucrative opportunities for all those involved, including investors, companies and top talents from around Asia and the world.

     There is no doubt that the support provided by the central government in Beijing has contributed positively to Hong Kong’s efforts in reaching and achieving the goals of the B&RI. Thanks to the unique “One country, Two Systems” principle, Hong Kong has managed to play a pivotal role in connecting the East and the West, and the Chinese cities to the world. This comes at a time when China, the second biggest economy in the world, is making remarkable strides towards innovation and sustainability, and is using them as key drivers to achieve joint development plans, paving the way to participating economies in the B&RI to benefit from the high degree of advanced industry, high-end technology, science and innovation provided by China.

     This year, the summit has focused on the eight major steps announced by the Chinese President Xi Jinping during the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation held in Beijing last year, to support the collective pursuit of high-quality co-operation within the framework of the Belt & Road Initiative, which is a global gathering to promote economic, trade and investment cooperation.

     Statistics between 2013 and 2023 have reinforced the great potential of the Belt & Road Initiative, and the collective benefit unlocked by supporting the growth and development of the B&RI participating economies. Data collected during that period has shown that China's trade in goods with participating economies has surpassed $2.1 trillion USD, while China's direct investment in B&RI economies topped $270 billion USD. Over the last few years, Chinese assets have also contributed to more than 3,000 projects developed under the B&RI in the participating economies, with a total value exceeding $1 trillion USD, thus reinforcing the collective good and shared prosperity of this initiative.

     The 9th edition of the Belt and Road Initiative has underscored the essential and pivotal role of Hong Kong as a key platform for connecting the economies of the Belt and Road countries. Hong Kong also represents the Silk Road and the Maritime Silk Road of the 21st century as it connects mainland China with South East Asia, the Middle East Africa and Europe via land, sea, and air. Hong Kong is therefore considered the main arm of the initiative, and an active partner and contributor to its success. It is worth noting that last year, the Belt and Road economies accounted for more than 43% of Hong Kong's external trade, in value, with the rest of the world other than the mainland.

     The world has realized more than ever that there is no alternative to Hong Kong, thanks to its strong and effective connection with the rest of the world. It provides a supporting model of high-quality development and openness as an international hub for finance, trade, cargo, tourism, innovation and technology, and green and sustainable development. Therefore, Hong Kong is a key and permanent player in the initiative, as confirmed by the central authorities and their renewed commitment to supporting Hong Kong in playing this unique role.

     This year’s Belt and Road Summit drew about 6,000 participants from around 70 countries and regions, including a delegation of more than 300 representatives of 38 of China’s state-owned enterprises, the biggest delegation of its kind since the launch of the initiative in 2013.

     Alongside the Consulate General, many Kuwaiti delegations participated in this year’s summit, including officials from Kuwait Investment Authority, experts from Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, representatives from The Kuwaiti Chamber of Commerce & Industry, as well as representatives from the private sector. They have all benefited greatly from the plenary sessions, side meetings, dialogue sessions, and networking with participating companies in the initiative. They have all conveyed their satisfaction and pleasure regarding their participation in the summit.

With Best Regards,

The Consul General of the State of Kuwait in Hong Kong and Macau SARs,

H.E. Ambassador Naser S Al-Ghanim

     The State of Kuwait and the friendly People's Republic of China enjoy close, rooted and well-established historical relations, as the State of Kuwait played a major role in the Silk Road trade, through which shipments and trade convoys of goods moved from Asia towards Europe and from east to west and vice versa. These trade convoys contributed to the spread and transfer of science, knowledge, culture, and many customs and traditions. These relations date back to ancient times; however, it began to develop over a century ago. The first official visits from the State of Kuwait to Beijing began in 1965, when the late Emir of the State of Kuwait, His Highness Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah - may his soul rest in peace, visited Beijing and met with the President of the People's Republic of China Mr. Liu Shaoqi, when he was Minister of Finance and Industry at the time. The visit forged closer relations between both nations and led to a great development after the State of Kuwait sought the help of developed Chinese companies and highly skilled and qualified work force and talents.

     The State of Kuwait was the first Gulf country to establish official and full diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China, on March 22, 1971. These relations were then expanded to cover many important cities and provinces in the country, such as the opening of the Consulate General of the State of Kuwait in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in September 1999, followed by the opening of the Consulate General in Guangzhou in February 2008 and the Consulate General in Shanghai in September 2019. Therefore, the diplomatic representation of the State of Kuwait in the People's Republic of China became the largest ever in the history of Kuwaiti diplomatic relations, which reflects the excellence and strength of the historical relations between both sides.

     The relations between the two countries continued to develop and reached a new level of depth when His Highness, the Emir of the State of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, visited the People's Republic of China in July 2018. This important visit led to the establishment of strategic relations through the forging of a strategic partnership between both countries covering all sectors, and reinforcing the alignment between Kuwait's 2035 national development vision with the Belt and Road Initiative launched by the President of the People's Republic of China, His Excellency Mr. Xi Jinping in 2013.

     Moreover, the discussions held between the representative of His Highness the Emir of the country, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Meshaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His Excellency President / Xi Jinping, which were held on the sidelines of the China-GCC Summit on December 9, 2022 in Riyadh, the capital city of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, formed a basis for aligning these visions between the two sides and an opportunity for both countries to constantly strive to implement these visions at various levels.

     One of the largest strategic projects discussed during the talks held between both sides was the cooperation agreement to execute the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port, which was one of the strategic steps towards transforming Kuwait into a financial and commercial hub, and a tourism centre in the region according to Kuwait's vision 2035 and the Belt and Road Initiative. Many more projects between the two sides will take place in the near future in order to turn the goals of this initiative into a practical reality.

     I am proud to report to you that the trade exchange between the two sides in 2021 exceeded 22 billion US dollars, making China the largest trade partner of the State of Kuwait. Moreover, Kuwait was the sixth largest oil-exporter to the People's Republic of China, with a value of approximately $25 billion USD during 2022.

     The state of Kuwait has investments across a number of Chinese cities and provinces, with a total value exceeding $40 billion USD, carried out by the Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA) through its office in Shanghai. I am also pleased to mention that the volume of Chinese investments in the State Kuwait amounted to 500 million US dollars as of 2021.

     The Kuwaiti Fund has provided over 40 loans for the implementation of a number of development projects in the friendly People's Republic of China. Moreover, the State of Kuwait is home to more than 120 Chinese companies working on various large-scale development projects, with a total value exceeding $21 billion USD.

     Both countries have shown mutual interest in many areas of cooperation, especially in the cultural sector. In March 2018, the Chinese Cultural Center was inaugurated in the State of Kuwait with the aim to enhance the cultural awareness and exchange between the two friendly nations and to promote the Chinese culture in Kuwait. In this regard, the Consulate General in the Hong Kong SAR has contributed to this exchange through its effective participation in the International Ethnic Cultural Performances festival which was organized by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department in November last year. The General Consulate's participation was outstanding and attractive to visitors and participants, where some paintings reflecting Kuwait's civilization, culture, and heritage were displayed, and some publications, books, and gifts related to Kuwait's history and heritage were distributed. This year, the Consulate General is also preparing to participate effectively in this distinguished cultural exhibition to enhance and strengthen bilateral relations and mutual understanding. This is all aimed at achieving cultural convergence between the two countries by introducing visitors and participants to Kuwait's history, economy, culture, society and authentic heritage.

     The friendly People's Republic of China has continued to achieve many outstanding milestones and radical changes through the great efforts made in achieving the goals of His Excellency President Xi Jinping's vision, which is based on building a safer, more equitable and stable shared future for humanity. This vision will be achieved through the Belt and Road Initiative, the Global Development Initiative, and the Global Security Initiative, which will provide a broader and more comprehensive scope for all countries around the world, as well as providing great development opportunities to achieve a comprehensive revival for all nations and peoples. These initiatives will bring together countries of the world, unify their efforts to achieve fair economic openness and will enhance opportunities to overcome various global challenges that undermine efforts to achieve sustainable development goals.

     The People's Republic of China has announced its 14th national development plan and outlined its development goals and priorities, including combating poverty, improving comprehensive healthcare, focusing on technology and innovation, transitioning to a green economy, reducing carbon emission to 50% by 2035 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. The governments of both Hong Kong SAR and Macau SAR are also working towards achieving the integration and inclusion goals outlined in the national development plan, which includes the development of the Greater Bay Area supported by their connection with mainland China and abundant advantages under the principle of "One Country, Two Systems".

     The relationship between the State of Kuwait and Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China has witnessed development and growth after the visit of His Highness the former Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah when he was Prime Minister at the time in July 2004, followed by a second visit when he was the Emir of Kuwait on 6 May 2009.

     Moreover, the former Chief Executive of Hong Kong Mr. Donald Tsang visited The State of Kuwait in January 2008 , where he met with the Emir of Kuwait, H. H. Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and The Crown Prince H.H. Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. During this visit, a letter of intent was signed to further develop trade relations between both sides, which covered technical co-operation, facilitation of business visits, trade fairs and exhibitions as well as imports and exports.

     Kuwaiti officials have shown special interest in Hong Kong SAR, where several members of the royal family, ministers and officials have visited it in an official capacity, as well as private visits, including:

• His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Muhammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in June 2004
• His Excellency Mr. Abdullah Abdul Rahman Al-Taweel - Minister of Commerce in December 2005.
• His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammed Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah - Prime Minister in May 2007, and in August 2008.
• His Excellency Mr. Badr Nasser Al Hamidi - Minister of Labor and Social Affairs in August 2008.
• His Excellency Sheikh Ahmed Fahd Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah - Chairman of the Olympic Council of Asia, in two visits during the month of December of 2008.
• His Excellency Ambassador Jassim Ahmed Al-Amir - Director of the Administrative and Financial Affairs Department in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in December of 2008.
• His Excellency Mr. Fawaz Al-Qassar - Minister of Finance in December of 2018.
• His Highness Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah - Prime Minister, in June 2014, followed by a second visit in May 2016.
• His Excellency Sheikh Mishaal Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah - Chairman of the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority during the month of May 2017.

     The State of Kuwait and the Hong Kong SAR government have signed important agreements and memorandums of understanding at both the government and private sector levels, including:

• The establishment of diplomatic relations on 30 June 1999.
• Air services Agreement signed on 7 April 2004.
• A co-operation protocol between the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce, signed on 9 July 2004.
• A letter of intent (LOI) between the Government of Hong Kong SAR of the People’s Republic of China and the Government of the State of Kuwait, signed on 27 June 2008.
• Investment promotion and protection agreement signed on 13 May 2010.
• Agreement for Economic and Technical Co-operation between the State of Kuwait and the HKSAR Government of the People’s Republic of China, signed on 13 May 2010.
• Agreement for the Avoidance of double taxation and the Prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income, signed on 13 May 2010.
• A memorandum of understanding between the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce, Hong Kong, signed on 7 May 2023.

    The Consulate General of the State of Kuwait in Hong Kong and Macao SARs has recently coordinated a visit of a business delegation from Hong Kong to Kuwait during the period from 6 -8 May 2023, headed by Chairman of the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong His Excellency Dr. Jonathan Choi, along with other members. This visit resulted in the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the CGCC and the Kuwaiti Chamber of Commerce and Industry on 7 May 2023. The delegation also met with many officials from the Kuwait Investment Authority and the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority, and discussed many aspects that would enhance investment and trade exchange between the two sides.

• The Consulate General in Hong Kong SAR is also working towards the mutual recognition of maritime certifications between the State of Kuwait and Hong Kong SAR.
• The Consulate has also recently proposed agreements to be signed with the Macau Special Administrative Region of China, which include:
• Economic and Technical Co-operation agreement.
• Agreement for the Avoidance of double taxation and the Prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income.
• Investment promotion and protection agreement.
• Air services agreement and a memorandum of understanding.

     The consulate general is also looking forwad to schedule the first meeting of the Joint Economic and Technical Committee between Kuwaiti and Chinese authorities in Hong Kong and Macau.

     The Consulate General in the Hong Kong and Macau SARs is also actively working towards scheduling the first meeting of the Joint Economic and Technical Committee between the relevant Kuwaiti authorities and their counterparts on the Hong Kong side at the earliest opportunity this year. The aim of the committee will be to enhance the prospects of cooperation and to strengthen the bilateral relations to achieve common interests on firm and solid foundations.

     We express our great confidence in the pivotal role that the Belt and Road Initiative will play in promoting cooperation between countries from around the world based on fair principles that enable all nations of the world to benefit from the renaissance and achieve sustainable development goals. The State of Kuwait will continue to actively and effectively play an important role in these efforts to achieve the noble objectives of this initiative.

     Finally, It gives me great pleasure to confirm that the State of Kuwait and the friendly People's Republic of China will continue to work and make further efforts to deepen the cooperation and to strengthen the strategic relations under the wise leadership of His Highness the Emir of the State of Kuwait Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah , His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah , and His Excellency President Xi Jinping of People's Republic of China.

Naser S Al-Ghanim

Consul General of the State of Kuwait in Hong Kong and Macau