Manama: Bahrain joins Kuwait in celebrating its National Days, reaffirming the deep-rooted ties and shared history between the two nations. February is a time of national pride for Kuwait, marking significant achievements in its development and progress under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mishal Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, Amir of Kuwait, with the support of the Kuwaiti government.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Kuwait commemorates its 64th National Day on February 25, alongside the 34th anniversary of Liberation Day on February 26. These national occasions hold great significance at both official and popular levels, symbolising a proud history, an ambitious present, and a future built on unity, sacrifice, and dedication to national development and stability.
The celebrations reflect Bahrain's longstanding appreciation of its close relationship with Kuwait, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, with the support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. Bahrain remains committed to honouring Kuwait's National Days as a testament to the historic and fraternal ties that unite the two nations and their peoples across various sectors.
Bahrain and Kuwait share deep historical and fraternal ties, rooted in common heritage, geography, and cultural traditions. These bonds have been strengthened by generations of leadership and are underpinned by shared Arab and Islamic values and common interests.
Diplomatic relations between Bahrain and Kuwait are among the oldest and most distinguished in the region. Officially established in 1971, they have been built on a legacy of kinship and familial connections, laying a solid foundation for a strong and enduring partnership.
Reflecting this deep-rooted relationship, high-level visits between the two leaderships have long served as a model for close coordination and consultation on regional and international issues of mutual interest. These discussions have played a vital role in enhancing bilateral cooperation within the framework of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and broader Arab and Islamic initiatives. Such engagements continue to advance joint efforts to promote stability, prosperity, and active participation in global peace and security initiatives.
A landmark moment in Bahrain-Kuwait relations was the official (state) visit of His Highness Sheikh Mishal Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah to Bahrain in February 2024. As one of his first visits following his assumption of office, the trip underscored the special nature of Bahraini-Kuwaiti relations.
During the visit, His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa conferred the Order of Sheikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa- Exceptional Class Collar on the Kuwaiti Amir, in recognition of his role in strengthening bilateral ties. This honour reflected the genuine fraternal bonds between the two leaderships and their shared vision for deeper cooperation across various fields.
The visit yielded significant outcomes, as highlighted in the joint statement issued at its conclusion. The statement underscored the commitment of both countries to strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in economic, investment, and security sectors. Both sides commended the growth of trade and investment between Bahraini and Kuwaiti companies and expressed their determination to explore new economic opportunities to further develop their partnership.
Recognising the need for structured collaboration amid global political and economic shifts, Bahrain and Kuwait established the Joint Higher Committee for Cooperation in 2002, chaired by their respective foreign ministers. The committee has since facilitated the signing of many agreements and memoranda of understanding, covering key areas such as trade, education, media, culture, tourism, renewable energy, and investment.
Bahrain and Kuwait have a long-standing tradition of mutual support, standing by each other in times of need and reinforcing their shared commitment to justice and regional stability. The two nations consistently align their positions on regional and international matters, advocating for peace and security in line with their foreign policy principles and adherence to international treaties. Their leaderships remain committed to rejecting violence and terrorism, upholding national sovereignty, and pursuing diplomatic solutions to conflicts through peaceful dialogue.
Kuwait's National Day celebrations this year coincide with the country's continued progress under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mishal Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, whose strategic directives have strengthened Kuwait's economic and regional role. The government's policies have reinforced Kuwait's status as a key player in global economic and political developments.
In 2024, Kuwait marked several milestones, guided by its Vision 2035 development agenda, which aims to enhance citizens' well-being and economic prosperity. This comprehensive reform programme spans economic, financial, social, security, youth, sports, and media sectors, alongside women's affairs. It also includes legislative reforms to safeguard Kuwait's national identity, promote transparency, and advance democratic governance. Large-scale development projects continue to drive economic growth and deliver long-term benefits for the nation and its people.