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Ambassador Morino Yasunari expressed deep appreciation to Rabah Al-Rabah, Director General of the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), for hosting the seminar.
Ambassador Morino specifically praised Al-Rabah for his outstanding efforts in facilitating connections between visiting Japanese companies and interested Kuwaiti counterparts, despite the busy pre-Holy Month of Ramadan period.
He also gave special thanks to Omote Takashi, Executive Director, and his team from the Japan Cooperation Center for the Middle East (JCCME), for organizing the event. Additionally, he expressed gratitude to the Japanese companies that participated in the seminar.
“I want to thank all participants from both Kuwait’s public and private sectors for their interest in collaborating with Japanese companies. I extend my appreciation to the representatives from the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority (KDIPA) for their insightful presentation,” he remarked.
Ambassador Morino noted, “Today’s seminar is a significant milestone, jointly organized by KCCI and JCCME since the pandemic’s subsidence. It sets the stage for the upcoming Japan-Kuwait Businessmen Committee meeting, which is expected to further enhance bilateral business relations.”
Kuwait and Japan Relationship
“We hope that the positive interactions witnessed today will lead to substantive consultations, fostering bilateral investment and trade opportunities. Japanese companies may find avenues for expansion in Kuwait, while Kuwaiti firms may explore investment opportunities tailored to the local market,” Ambassador Morino added.
He emphasized, “Creating a conducive business environment is crucial for advancing international economic relations, contributing to global prosperity.” He mentioned Japan’s upcoming chairmanship of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development’s (OECD) Ministerial Council Meeting in June 2024 in Paris.
Japan seeks to engage with non-member countries, believing that deeper mutual understanding between OECD members and non-members promotes international economic relations and sustainable growth, the ambassador stated. “We are ready to collaborate with the Kuwaiti government, an active participant and contributor to OECD activities.”
“Finally, on behalf of my government, I extend heartfelt congratulations to H.H. Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Amir of the State of Kuwait, H.H. Sheikh Doctor Muhammad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister, and the people of Kuwait on the 63rd anniversary of independence and the 33rd anniversary of liberation. We are confident that Kuwait and Japan will continue to prosper under the wise leadership of these esteemed leaders,” he concluded.
What is the current state of the Japan-Kuwait relationship?
Japan and Kuwait have maintained close and friendly relations since establishing diplomatic ties in 1961. The two countries have a comprehensive partnership and cooperate in a broad range of fields, including politics, economy, culture, and people-to-people exchanges
What are some key areas of cooperation between Japan and Kuwait?
The two countries cooperate in areas such as trade, investment, energy, infrastructure development, and medical/healthcare services. Japan is a major importer of Kuwaiti oil, while Kuwait has invested significantly in Japan.
How do the two countries collaborate on cultural and people-to-people exchanges?
There is growing interest and appreciation for each other’s cultures in both countries. Kuwaiti students are attracted to Japan’s advanced technologies and traditional culture, while Japan is keen to learn from Kuwait’s Islamic heritage. The two governments also promote cultural events and exchanges
Is there a visa exemption agreement between Japan and Kuwait?
No, there is currently no visa exemption agreement between Japan and Kuwait. Kuwaiti citizens require a visa to enter Japan, which they can apply for at the Embassy of Japan in Kuwait