Page 9 - ELITE PLUS MAGAZINE VOL 12

Small Countrywith a Big InfluenceThe Kuwaiti ambassador speaks about his nation’s role in the Persian Gulf and the world, relations with Thailand and plans moving forward...Securing our money is one thing; concern about non-replenishable resources is another.I believe it is the [task of] teamwork of all nations, producers and consumers to find solutions whose procedures will have our support.Asmall country on a coast of the Persian Gulf, Kuwait is one of the world’s most financially powerful nations. Commonly known for wealth generated from oil and gas, the purchasing power of citizens has grown due in large part to industrial development. His Excellency Abdullah Jomaa Abdullah AlSharhan, Kuwaiti ambassador to Thailand, sat down with Elite+ to reveal aspects of the nation and its people rarely considered by outsiders.What is the Kuwait government’s policy on foreign relations?Our policy is governed by a belief in mutual respect, equality and non-interference in the internal affairs of other nations. We prefer quiet diplomacy. When disputes arise, whether or not they involve us, we advocate settling them by peaceful means and in compliance with international laws. At the moment, we have 104 diplomatic missions around the world and much the same number of foreign diplomatic missions in Kuwait.Besides the impact as a major producer of oil and gas, what other roles does Kuwait play in the international community?We are a member of several international organizations involved in important affairs such as economics, security, peace and energy. We have been a member of the United Nations since 1963, and so are a member of the G77. As a proactive member of the Arab League, we promote politics, economy, culture and security in the Arab world. Besides several funding organizations we have joined as a loaner, our own Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, established in 1961, provides financial and technical aid to developing countries around the world. We gain little profit from these long-term loans because we believe it is our responsibility to help people who need help.And we have earned a reputation at the regional level as a good mediator in resolving disputes. The person taking a lead in this role is His Highness the Emir of Kuwait Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, who had been a minister of foreign affairs for a long time. He is often asked to be a mediator because neighbouring countries trust and respect him.How are Kuwait’s relationships with its neighbours? What about Iraq after the Gulf War of 1990?Maintaining good relations with all of our neighbours is one of our top priorities. And we have closer relationships and contacts with some. ForElite+ 7