Kuwait-Bangladesh relations deepen, contributions lauded

Arab Times

17-04-2025

KUWAIT CITY, April 17: Minister of Justice Counselor Nasser Al-Sumait reaffirmed the deep-rooted and longstanding relations between Kuwait and the Republic of Bangladesh, indicating this is a partnership that has spanned five decades. Speaking on the sidelines of a reception hosted by the Embassy of Bangladesh to celebrate the 54th Independence and National Day of the country; Al-Sumait praised the contributions of the Bangladeshi community in Kuwait which, he pointed out, is the third-largest expatriate group in the country, numbering more than 300,000.
'Their heroic role during the brutal Iraqi invasion remains etched in our memory,' Al-Sumait said; recalling the efforts of Bangladeshi nationals in clearing landmines and their sacrifices, including those who lost their lives. 'Kuwait will never forget this favor. Our hands, both the government and people, are always extended to them.' Commenting on reforms within the judicial system of Kuwait, Al-Sumait referred to the recent steps taken by the Ministry of Justice in line with the directives of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. 'Inspired by His Highness' Ramadan speech during his visit to the Supreme Judicial Council, we translated his vision into the new Judicial Organization Law. This comprehensive legislation consists of several vital reforms and is currently in its final drafting stage at the Legal Advice and Legislation Department. We expect completion within a few months,' he disclosed. He also affirmed the ministry's emphasis on gender inclusion in the judiciary, adding that more than 20 women now serve as judges in Kuwait. 'For the first time, we have four female directors of public prosecution out of the 14 total. They have proven their capability and receive our full support. New female prosecutors are appointed annually,' he said. Responding to questions regarding citizenship revocations under Article Eight of the Nationality Law; Al-Sumait clarified that while he is not part of the Nationality Committee, the ministry supports implementation efforts.
'His Highness the Amir has issued clear instructions that women whose citizenship was revoked under Article Eight should be treated as Kuwaiti citizens, but this should be done within certain regulatory frameworks. As a result, 25 female lawyers previously stripped of citizenship have been reinstated and have resumed their professional duties. Their home ownership rights also remain intact,' he stressed Meanwhile, Bangladeshi Ambassador to Kuwait, Major General Syed Tariq Hossain affirmed Kuwait's early recognition of Bangladesh following its 1971 independence. He praised the long-standing diplomatic ties established in 1974 and expressed optimism about continued bilateral cooperation, under the wise leadership of HH the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and visionary leadership of His Excellency the Chief Advisor of Bangladesh and Nobel Laureate Dr. Mohammad Yunus. 'Our collaboration covers politics, trade, labor, education, and defense. Recent achievements in social and economic development have positioned Bangladesh as a growing regional force,' he disclosed. He cited the July-August 2024 youth-led uprising in Bangladesh, crediting it with advancing democratic values and accountability. He also talked about the success of the recent investment summit in Dhaka, held on April 7-10, 2025; which witnessed the participation of 415 delegates from 50 countries. He extended an invitation to Kuwait and other nations to invest in the special economic zones in is country and promoted its tourism potential. 'Bangladesh is a land of natural beauty and hospitality. I encourage everyone to experience it firsthand,' he stated.