‘Radiant era unfolds for Kuwait'
He explained 'Kuwait has lagged far behind the Gulf community, and even behind positive developments in the world. It is now time for the country to emerge from the tunnel where it was forcibly placed.' He said, 'The acceleration of projects taking place today, especially the development projects, is well thought out and proceeding with the right steps. As a result, we will witness next year, Allah willing, the opening of the new airport, which will provide the highest level of modern services and accommodate more than 25 million passengers.' He pointed out that 'the goal is not only to attract tourists, investors and businesspersons; but also to create an environment conducive to the investment of foreign capital in the country and to open the way for local investors to participate in this.' He confirmed that 'the government received Amiri orders to overcome the obstacles to modernization – whether in the legislative aspect or in the overlapping responsibilities among official institutions; including the awarding of tenders for infrastructure projects which, from now on, will be done directly with companies proven to have the relevant experience and remarkable achievements.'
He stressed that the government, under high directives, is working hard to amend the laws; away from the existing controversy that hinders achievements, as well as to prevent self-interest and combat corruption, because the goal is to restore the radiance that distinguished Kuwait in the past.' He revealed that 'His Highness is following up the desert greening project using new technology. So far, Kuwait has received a specialized Chinese delegation and work is underway in several nature reserves, according to the highest modern standards. Funds allocated after the liberation of Kuwait for the environmental damage it incurred and are currently with the United Nations will be used for the implementation of these projects. These funds are almost obsolete or abandoned. The time has come to release these funds. The government received orders to use the funds to repair the environmental damage and for the greening project.'
Regarding tourism that falls under his jurisdiction, Al-Mutairi asserted that 'working on entertainment projects and promoting tourism are daily activities for us. We work diligently to make the most of the tourism season, which begins in September and ends in May, for the benefit of the country. Previously, there was only one tourism month.' He added 'utilizing entertainment projects is essential to boost the gross domestic product (GDP) on one hand; and transforming Kuwait into a tourist destination for its people, residents and visitors, so it does not become a deterrent – as it was in past years – to citizens and residents who usually take advantage of any opportunity to travel abroad to enjoy what is available in other countries.'
He stressed 'there will be no overlap in issuing licenses in this regard, as this falls under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Information and Culture, which is responsible for tourism; and the private sector can participate.' He emphasized that 'there is much to be gained from Kuwait in terms of tourism; including its sea coasts and land, which can be attractive to visitors, citizens and residents.' He stated 'we will promote these projects through conferences starting in September, especially since the 'Visa Kuwait' platform has begun to bear fruit. It is a step that the State will not back down from; it will rather work hard to develop the platform.' Towards the end of the interview, Al-Mutairi asserted, 'We are witnessing an era that pushes Kuwait to be a pioneer in the region and to regain its former glory. Thus, the leadership's oversight in this area is tight to ensure tangible and rapid achievements.'
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