Kuwait Gears Up for 12th British Week Starting Next Week
KUWAIT CITY, Feb 11: The British Embassy in Kuwait has announced the launch of the 12th edition of "British Week in Kuwait," set to take place on the ground floor of Capital Mall next week. The exhibition, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad, will run for two days, February 18 and 19, from 10 AM to 10 PM, showcasing products and services from leading British companies.
British Ambassador to Kuwait, Belinda Lewis, emphasized the strength of the UK-Kuwait trade relationship, which is now valued at approximately £6 billion annually. She highlighted that British companies have been operating in Kuwait for 250 years, reflecting deep-rooted historical and economic ties between the two nations.
Ahmed Behbehani, Chairman of the Organizing Committee, expressed his gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad for his patronage, noting that the event underscores the historic and strategic relations between Kuwait and the United Kingdom. He also pointed out that British Week is one of Kuwait's most significant economic events this year, showcasing the vital role British companies play in key sectors such as industry, services, real estate, and tourism.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Arab Times
a day ago
- Arab Times
ICAIKC hosts ‘Focus Gives Success' by Dr. Velumani, Thyrocare founder
KUWAIT CITY, June 4: The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India Kuwait Chapter (ICAIKC) successfully hosted an engaging and motivational Continuing Professional Education (CPE) event titled 'Focus Gives Success' at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Kuwait. The session featured a captivating keynote address by Dr. A. Velumani, Creator of Thyrocare, and drew participation from a large number of finance professionals, their spouses, and distinguished guests across Kuwait. The event was graced by His Excellency Dr. Adarsh Swaika, Ambassador of India to the State of Kuwait, who praised ICAIKC's continuous efforts in advancing professional development and strengthening India-Kuwait ties in the financial and corporate sectors. Also in attendance was Mr. Sabah Al-Jalawi, Chairman of the Kuwait Accountants and Auditors Association (KAAA), who commended the chapter's commitment to promoting excellence, ethics, and education in the accounting profession. Dr. Velumani shared his extraordinary journey from humble beginnings to building one of India's most successful diagnostic companies, emphasizing the transformative power of clarity, consistency, and unwavering focus. His session resonated deeply with attendees, offering a blend of humor, humility, and hard-earned wisdom. CA Rohit Agarwal, Chairman of ICAIKC and CA Aditya Vikram Dhanuka, immediate past Chairman extended heartfelt thanks to Dr. Velumani, the dignitaries, and all participating members. 'Dr. Velumani's story is a masterclass in resilience and vision,' CA Rohit remarked. 'It reminded us that success doesn't just come from skill, but from a focused and fearless mindset.' The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by CA Andaleeb Girkar. She expressed deep appreciation to the esteemed speaker, Dr. A. Velumani, for his inspiring and motivational address. Special gratitude was extended to the Chief Guest, H.E. Dr. Adarsh Swaika, Ambassador of India to Kuwait, and Mr. Sabah Al-Jalawi, Chairman of the Kuwait Accountants and Auditors Association (KAAA), along with other distinguished guests, attendees, and the dedicated organizing committee. She also acknowledged the unwavering support of the Chapter's annual sponsors – NBK, Al Mulla Exchange, and Cube Innovators – and thanked the media partners, (IIK), Times Kuwait, and Arab Times, for their continued collaboration and coverage. For more information on future events and initiatives, visit and join ICAIKC in its ongoing journey toward professional excellence.
Kuwait Times
2 days ago
- Kuwait Times
Outgoing Chinese envoy praises growth in China-Kuwait ties
KUWAIT: The Chinese embassy in Kuwait hosted a farewell reception on Monday in honor of the outgoing Chinese Ambassador. During his speech, Chinese Ambassador to Kuwait Zhang Jianwei expressed his deep appreciation to Kuwaiti leadership, officials, and people as he concluded his diplomatic mission after three years of service, highlighting the remarkable development in China-Kuwait relations and the warmth of the Kuwaiti society. Ambassador Jianwei shared that his arrival in Kuwait on May 22, 2022, marked the beginning of a significant and unforgettable chapter in his diplomatic career. 'Over the past three years, I had the pleasure of witnessing Kuwait's remarkable journey toward progress under the wise leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. The New Kuwait 2035 Vision has achieved tremendous success across multiple sectors, elevating Kuwait's regional and international standing,' he said. Regarding Kuwait's cultural richness, he said: 'From the majestic Grand Mosque to the vibrant Souq Al-Mubarakiya, from traditional Sadu weaving to modern architectural marvels like Al Hamra Tower and the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre, the blend of heritage and modernity left a deep impression on me.' The Ambassador highlighted key accomplishments during his term, adding that there were two meetings between Chinese President Xi Jinping and HH the Amir Sheikh Meshal that fostered strategic alignment. On economic cooperation, he mentioned that China remained Kuwait's largest trading partner for 10 consecutive years, explaining: 'Substantial progress was achieved in landmark ventures such as Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port and renewable energy initiatives.' He noted that the first Chinese Cultural Center in the Gulf was established in Kuwait during his tenure, and exchanges among students, academics, media and youth increased. The ambassador also welcomed the recent Chinese decision to grant visa exemptions to Kuwaiti passport holders, saying: 'We warmly welcome more Kuwaiti friends to explore China.' Concluding his remarks, the Chinese Ambassador affirmed his confidence in the bright future of China-Kuwait relations and pledged to continue promoting this enduring friendship wherever he goes.
Arab Times
3 days ago
- Arab Times
Words for the Ministers of Finance and Commerce to consider - How did China shift from a starving nation to the world's second-largest economy?
IT is necessary to track and understand China's path to economic power. In the first half of the 20th century, China was a deeply impoverished nation, emerging from Japanese colonial occupation and ravaged by civil wars. In 1949, Mao Zedong rose to power and launched what became known as the Long March. He introduced a strict authoritarian regime and a series of poorly planned policies, most notably the 'Great Leap Forward,' which triggered a catastrophic famine that claimed the lives of approximately 15 million people. During Mao Zedong's rule, China was isolated from the world, heavily dependent on agriculture, and plagued by conflicts among various factions within the Communist Party. Mao later launched the Cultural Revolution, a campaign that resulted in the deaths of hundreds of thousands of citizens. Throughout the 1960s, China was regarded as one of the poorest countries in the world. A dramatic transformation began in 1978 with the rise of Deng Xiaoping to power, who succeeded Mao and set China on a new economic path. Xiaoping graduated from a French university and was, remarkably, among those sentenced to death during the Cultural Revolution; however, fate had other plans. It is reported that after his graduation, Xiaoping said, 'The common sentiment in China was that our country was weak. We wanted to make it strong, so we traveled to the West and endured the hardships of exile to learn.' Driven by his belief in the need to open up to the world, Xiaoping sought the expertise of foreign minds. He enlisted the help of British doctor of Iraqi origin, Elias Korkis, granting him broad powers, and even empowering him to issue directives to ministers. The most important elements of China's success were openness, reform, encouraging foreign investment, and gradually loosening state control over the economy. Agricultural communes were dismantled as part of these sweeping changes. This turning point marked the beginning of rapid economic growth, with rates at times exceeding ten percent. By the early 2010s, China had become the world's factory, relying on its vast pool of inexpensive labor and making heavy infrastructure investments to gain entry into the World Trade Organization. As a result, China's exports soared to $15 trillion within a few years, and its brands flooded global markets. China then moved to diversify its economy, expanding into the world of technology and services. It provided strong support to national companies, prioritized clean energy, and entered the realm of artificial intelligence. Then came the Belt and Road Initiative, a major milestone in China's development, aimed at expanding its global trade influence. This initiative helped propel China's GDP to $19 trillion, accounting for roughly 20 percent of the global economy. As mentioned earlier, a main figure in building this powerful economy was Elias Korkis, a British national of Iraqi origin. Despite China's vast pool of capabilities and competencies, there was no objection to his leadership. No one demanded his replacement with a 'pure' native Chinese citizen. This Iraqi-born doctor was the driving force behind China's reforms, opening the country's doors to foreign professionals and investors. China has welcomed hundreds of thousands of people from various nationalities to work and thrive. The Chinese are no different from other peoples around the world. They are a diverse mix of tribes and communities, many of whom have become naturalized citizens. Millions of immigrants own property, run businesses, and contribute to the growth of China, which is a vast and diverse nation with a population of 1.408 billion. The Chinese have no time to waste on repeating naive slogans. Everyone works toward the best interests of their country. In nearly half a century, China transformed into the powerhouse behind this tremendous economy, securing its distinguished position among the world's nations through a clear and focused vision. This is why the world today watches the Chinese experience with amazement and a keen desire to learn.
