The bilateral relations between Oman and Kuwait are going from strength to strength for centuries, the watershed moment being the opening of $9-billion Duqm Petroleum Refinery by His Majesty Haitham bin Tariq and Kuwait Emir Shaikh Meshal al-Ahmad al Sabah during the Kuwait leader’s visit to Oman in February this year. The upcoming state visit of His Majesty the Sultan with a high level delegation will further nurture the bilateral ties and open up new horizons of cooperation.
The first visit made by His Majesty the Sultan, after assuming the reins of power in January 2020, to Kuwait was a significant indication of the extent of the close connection between the leaderships of the two brotherly countries. Shaikh Mishal visited Oman in February this year, his second international duty after assuming leadership of Kuwait in December 2023, symbolising the leadership’s commitment to nurturing the enduring relations built on mutual principles and values.
Oman and Kuwait share many goals; peace, development, and welfare of its peoples. Both countries work together to achieve Oman Vision 2040 and Kuwait Vision 2035, which aim to diversify sources of national income, strong private sector, sustainable development, promotion public health and development
The brotherly countries strive to foster good relations based on the history, social heritage and common political positions.
Oman’s unequivocal condemnation of the invasion and active participation in Kuwait’s liberation in 1991 showcased the sultanate’s commitment to solidarity and action.
Those who follow Omani-Kuwaiti relations can bear witness to the diplomatic approach pursued by both sides to resolve crises and disputes through peaceful means. Oman and Kuwait share positions on many regional and international issues, based on respect for the sovereignty and independence of states and compliance with the rule of international law and conventions.
The two countries bear unwavering support for the Palestinians and their determination to protect them from Israel’s war crimes
Economic ties between the Gulf neighbors have seen the most growth as evident from the robust trade relations that have seen Kuwaiti investments in Oman exceed RO 922 million in the third quarter last year
The Joint Omani-Kuwaiti Committee also plays an important role in bilateral relations. The Committee, which was established in 2003 is held alternately in the capitals of the two countries. The most recent meeting was the ninth session held in Muscat last March.
The bilateral relations between Oman and Kuwait extend to ancient historical roots, the most important of which is maritime communication through the ports of the two countries, as Kuwaiti commercial ships used to take the Omani ports as a starting point towards East Asia, East Africa and many other destinations, including through Bab al Mandab, and this communication allowed for the existence of relations and ties.
Social interaction between the Omani and Kuwaiti peoples continues to interact positively today. During the Khareef Dhofar last year, 40,000 Kuwaitis visited Salalah and its adjoining wilayats to enjoy the weather.
The leaders of both countries will take the bilateral relations to a new level and continue to lead the world along the path of peace, stability, friendship and development.
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