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Kuwait Times
11-05-2025
- Sport
- Kuwait Times
Embassy celebrates 60th anniversary of Kuwait-Canada ties
By Christine Susan Shine KUWAIT: The Canadian Embassy in Kuwait commemorated the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Canada and Kuwait with a spirited ice hockey match on Saturday, marking a significant milestone in the enduring partnership between the two nations. Held in collaboration with the Kuwait Winter Games Club, the friendly game between the Canadian Mooseheads and the Kuwait Stars drew a lively crowd of families, hockey fans, and dignitaries. Spectators of all ages filled the stands, waving Canadian and Kuwaiti flags and cheering for their teams in a vibrant display of camaraderie. Canadian Ambassador Aliya Mawani, speaking at the event, underscored the cultural significance of the sport. 'Ice hockey is a core part of Canadian identity, and it's inspiring to see how it's been embraced here in Kuwait, bringing together players from all over the world,' she said in her opening remarks. The match was part of a broader, year-long celebration of Canada-Kuwait ties, with events throughout 2025 showcasing shared values through art, music, business, and education. Ambassador Mawani highlighted the power of sports in building bridges between cultures, telling Kuwait Times, 'It's really wonderful to see how sports can be a great vehicle for empowerment—for both girls and boys—in terms of building confidence, skill, and teamwork. People-to-people connections are at the heart of strong bilateral ties, and today's match truly captured that spirit.' Canadian Ambassador Ambassador Aliya Mawani and Chairman of Kuwait Winter Games Club Fehaid Al-Ajmi take group photo with Kuwait Stars And Canadian Mooseheads. Canadian Ambassador Aliya Mawani and Chairman of Kuwait Winter Games Club Fehaid Al- Ajmi The game itself was a thrilling contest, ending in a tie that led to a dramatic tiebreaker. In the end, the Canadian Mooseheads clinched victory, but the true triumph lay in the spirit of friendship and mutual respect displayed on and off the ice. Long-time Canadian resident in Kuwait, Debra Clark, who has lived in the country for 18 years, reflected on the significance of the moment. 'You don't often get to watch your home team play live when you're abroad. This event brought the Canadian community together in such a meaningful way,' she said. Kuwaiti attendee Sabeekah Al-Bahar said she was drawn to the event to celebrate the long-standing friendship between the two countries. 'I was amazed by the high level of skill and challenge on the ice. Both teams were incredibly professional—it was such a joy to watch,' she said. The stadium echoed with energy as fans donned team jerseys and celebrated the occasion with cheers and chants. Among them was Walid Elawadly, a Canadian living in Kuwait, who attended with his family. 'It brings me so much joy to see Kuwait's team playing so well. This was a match we were really looking forward to, and it didn't disappoint,' he said. Also present was Fehaid Al-Ajmi, Chairman of the Kuwait Winter Games Club, who praised the growing popularity of ice hockey in Kuwait. He noted the club's ongoing efforts to promote the sport among men, women and youth, providing new avenues for athletic development and empowerment. The evening's festivities underscored the deep and evolving relationship between Canada and Kuwait, with the ice rink serving as a stage for shared celebration, sporting excellence and lasting friendship.
Arab Times
11-05-2025
- Sport
- Arab Times
Kuwait and Canada celebrate 60 years of diplomatic ties with a friendly match
KUWAIT CITY: To celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations between Kuwait and Canada, the Embassy of Canada in Kuwait and the Kuwait Winter Sports Club jointly organized a friendly ice hockey match. The game featured the Canadian Mooseheads facing off against the Kuwaiti Stars at the club's indoor ice rink, drawing a notable turnout of officials, diplomats, and enthusiastic spectators. Canadian Ambassador to Kuwait, Aliya Mawani, highlighted the significance of the event, noting that ice hockey—Canada's most beloved sport—was chosen to represent the enduring friendship and cooperation between the two nations. She added that this sporting event is part of a series of commemorations that have included art, music, business, technology, and education to mark the anniversary. President of the Kuwait Winter Sports Club, Fahad Al-Ajmi, expressed his pride in hosting the match, describing it as a symbol of the strong ties and mutual respect shared between Kuwaiti and Canadian athletes. He praised the spirit of camaraderie and cultural exchange that the event fostered. Al-Ajmi further stressed the importance of such sporting events in building bridges between nations, stating that the club remains committed to enhancing its relationships with international partners to benefit the development of Kuwaiti youth involved in winter sports.
Kuwait Times
07-05-2025
- Politics
- Kuwait Times
Young Ambassador Program nurtures youth to be the voice of the voiceless
Program concludes third edition, inspires future diplomats By Christine Susan Shine KUWAIT: The third edition of the Young Ambassador Program concluded on Tuesday, marking the culmination of seven months of immersive learning and international engagement. The initiative, jointly organized by the British and Canadian Embassies in Kuwait alongside the Office of the UN Secretary-General's Representative, remains a unique model hosted exclusively in Kuwait. This year's program brought together 39 high school students aged 14 to 18 from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds to delve into the world of diplomacy, multilateral cooperation and global challenges. Centered on the theme of 'Sustainable Peace and Security,' the initiative explored pressing international issues including climate change, gender equality, disinformation, and cybersecurity—framed within the broader context of peacebuilding. British Ambassador Belinda Lewis noted the significance of diversity in the program's learning environment. 'It's often daunting to bring together young people with different perspectives, but that discomfort is where the real learning begins,' she said. Throughout the program, participants were mentored by diplomats and UN officials, worked in partnership with local embassies and institutions, and engaged in policy simulations, negotiation workshops, and thematic panel discussions. These sessions provided students with practical insights into international relations and the complexities of diplomatic dialogue. British Ambassador Belinda Lewis Canadian Ambassador Aliya Mawani UN Representative Ghada Eltahir 'My daughter had to step out of her comfort zone. She worked with students from American, British and Arab schools—young people she had never met before, with different perspectives,' said Elsy, the mother of Kaelle Dib, a participant from a French school. 'That kind of collaboration changes you. It helps build character and confidence,' she added. The program's curriculum also included public speaking and self-expression training, a cybersecurity session with the Kuwait College of Science and Technology, and discussions on gender-based violence in connection with the UN's 16 Days of Activism campaign. Participants also visited Kuwait Times to gain firsthand insight into the media's role in shaping diplomatic narratives and explored international institutions such as NATO and the United Nations. Speaking at the closing ceremony, Canadian Ambassador Aliya Mawani praised the students' engagement and potential. 'Many of you told me this experience was life-changing. Diplomacy must evolve, and that means we need new voices. Your voice matters. What you do next, how you use this platform—that's what excites me,' she said, expressing hope that similar models could be adopted globally. UN Representative Ghada Eltahir highlighted the program's broader relevance. 'In a world increasingly fragmented, where global peace and security may seem like overwhelming tasks, these young diplomats hold the potential and responsibility to reimagine the frameworks of cooperation, multilateralism, and diplomacy,' she said. Ambassador Lewis also encouraged participants to carry the lessons of the program into their futures. 'Keep talking to people, keep asking questions, and stay open to being challenged. That is what diplomacy demands,' she remarked.
Arab Times
10-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab Times
A cultural bridge of connection: Kuwait, Canada mark 60 years of partnership
KUWAIT CITY, April 10: Art and culture serve as powerful instruments of diplomacy, offering a universal language that transcends political and linguistic barriers. Cultural initiatives foster mutual understanding and goodwill between nations by showcasing shared values, diverse perspectives, and creative expression. They also build bridges of empathy and dialogue, reinforcing the foundation of international relationships. In a vivid display of creativity and diplomacy, the Embassy of Canada, in collaboration with the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, has launched a fascinating art exhibition celebrating 60 years of Kuwait-Canada diplomatic relations. The 'Kuwait-Canada: Celebrating 60 Years of Connection' exhibition opened on April 7 at the Kuwait Museum of Modern Art and runs through April 11. Featuring moving works of Kuwaiti visual storyteller Thuraya Al Baqsami and celebrated Canadian painter Reza Doust, it reflects on shared values, cultural richness, and enduring friendship. 'It is the perfect time to reflect on our partnership and decades of connections forged between our countries and people,' said Canadian Ambassador to Kuwait, Aliya Mawani. Blending Al Baqsami's vibrant narratives, who is known for championing women in art, with Doust's soulful portraits and deep appreciation for Kuwait's heritage, the exhibition serves as a cultural bridge. It reminds visitors that beyond diplomacy and trade, it is often art that truly binds people together. 'This exhibition explores the essence of human expression, featuring the works of esteemed Kuwaiti artist, Thuraya Al Baqsami – an inspiring figure in Kuwait's art scene, and a champion of women's contribution to the country's artistic landscape, and renowned Canadian artist and portrait master Reza Doust, whose deep connection to Kuwait is reflected in his passion for its heritage, environment and people,' noted Aliya Mawani, in her welcome speech. 'It is fitting that the exhibition focusses on human expression, because diplomacy at its heart is first and foremost about people,' she continued. 'In their works, Thuraya and Reza beautifully capture the diversity and distinctiveness of our people, as well as what we have in common, what we hold dear, and what binds us together.' Emphasizing the crucial role of arts and culture in diplomacy, Aliya Mawani suggests they foster understanding and cooperation among nations by reflecting shared hopes, fears, and dreams. She argues that arts and culture enable better problem-solving and relationship-building by providing a medium through which diverse identities can be explored and communicated. 'Art and culture is central to diplomacy, because diplomacy is really about relationships and solving problems,' she observed. 'We can do that so much better if we understand each other, and arts and culture help us do that, because it reflects our hopes, fears, dreams, and identity.' Additionally, she says, these cultural expressions create safe spaces for open dialogue and the exchange of ideas, which is essential for diplomatic connections and cultural unity. ' I believe art and culture allow us to have conversations. It creates spaces for conversations that we can't have in other ways. It also creates safe spaces where we can explore ideas and possibilities. I think it's integral to diplomacy and connecting people, cultures, and nations.' Ambassador Mawani shared her admiration for the collaboration between Thuraya Al Baqsami and Reza Doust. She highlighted their exceptional creativity, focus on humanity, appreciation for details, and strong power of observation. 'I love the collaboration between the two artists. I know each of them separately and admire their work. They're both exceptional artists and creatives, and I love that humanity is at the core of their work. They put so much wonderful detail into their work. What I also find compelling is that they challenge the idea of what is worth painting, who is worth painting, because their stories, the people they focus on, and their work is about the power and the beauty in each person.' Highlighting cultural ties between Canada and Kuwait, Thuraya Al Baqsami said, 'I am more than happy to collaborate. It is a great way to focus on the relationship between two countries. Apart from politics and commerce, art and culture also play a big part in this relation. And when the Canadian Embassy chose me to represent Kuwaiti artists in this exhibition, I was delighted. It is a big honor for me.' Al Baqsami was especially happy to present her work alongside Doust, a noted Canadian artist of Iranian descent from British Columbia with whom she has a personal and professional connection. 'Doust is an old friend. It is easy for me to exhibit my work with a friend. He lived many years in Kuwait. He knows our society and way of life well. He is well known in Kuwait and has often shown his work here. I love his art, and this love and friendship is reflected in this exhibition.' Underscoring the importance of art in bridging cultures, she says, ' This exhibition is a good sign that both countries are interested in promoting art and culture.' Thuraya Al Baqsami also expressed her enthusiasm for the international exchange of art and culture, suggesting that Kuwaiti embassies should host similar exhibitions to foster deeper international relations and enhance the perception of Kuwaiti artists abroad. ' I wish our embassies abroad would do something similar. Exchanging art and culture can only make relations between countries deeper and stronger. It will also enhance the image of Kuwaiti artists abroad. I wish more embassies in Kuwait would engage in similar activities and strengthen cultural relations by collaborating with Kuwaiti artists.' She was quick to praise the significant support provided by the NCCAL in facilitating the event, which affirmed the government's commitment to encouraging cultural activities in Kuwait. Canadian portrait artist Reza Doust brings more than paint to canvas—he brings connection. Born in Esfahan in 1960 and based in British Columbia since 1998, Doust has spent decades using his art to build cultural bridges, particularly between Canada and the Persian Gulf region. His deep bond with Kuwait, the first foreign country he visited, has shaped much of his creative journey. 'Kuwait feels like a second home,' Doust shared. 'There's a natural cultural closeness with Iran, and I've always felt understood and supported here.'Known for his expressive figurative works, Doust draws inspiration from the complexity of human emotion—a glance, a smile, or a moment that speaks volumes. 'Every portrait I exhibit begins with a powerful emotional spark,' he says. Now, in his first-ever two-artist exhibition, Doust joins Thuraya Al Baqsami, blending their unique visual languages in a compelling artistic dialogue. 'It's a meaningful collaboration—viewers get to experience two very different approaches to figurative art in one space,' he notes. Doust continues to champion cultural exchange through his art, proving that a portrait can do more than capture a face—it can connect hearts across borders.
Arab Times
11-02-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
‘Canada, Kuwait pursue goals jointly'
KUWAIT CITY, Feb 11: Canadian Ambassador to Kuwait Aliya Mawani said the 60th Canadian National Flag Day and 60th anniversary of Canada and Kuwait relations come at a time of change and transformation in both countries and in the world in general. Mawani made the statement during the celebration of the Canadian National Flag Day in the presence of Minister of Commerce and Industry Khalifa Al-Ajeel and a large number of ambassadors and diplomats. She pointed out these two occasions also coincide with the two countries assuming major leadership roles -- Canada as the chair of the G7 and Kuwait as the chair of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Arab Capital of Culture and Information for 2025. 'These roles provide the two countries with platforms as partners and members of the international community to pursue their shared commitment to humanitarian work, cooperation and enhancing global security and stability. These priorities are essential for economic development and prosperity, not only of our two countries but also the entire world,' she added. She explained that 'an anniversary -- whether in life or diplomacy -- acquires the importance we give to it and can provide opportunities to reflect on what we have built and what we aspire for.' She also asserted that 'both Canada and Kuwait support a collective approach to problem-solving. We firmly believe that we can achieve more together. This is the essence of our diplomatic relations and has been a hallmark of Canada-Kuwait cooperation since the relationship was formally established on April 27, 1965. This has been reinforced by Canada's role in liberating Kuwait from occupation during the first Gulf War, in which approximately 4,500 Canadian service members participated, and by Kuwait hosting a Canadian Armed Forces base since 2011, which plays a critical role in our security, stability and humanitarian engagement across the region.' She added 'our celebration tonight is part of a program of events and activities for the anniversary that will take place throughout 2025 and will revolve around connectivity, highlighting key aspects of the relationship -- cultural exchange, trade and cooperation in healthcare and education, ICT, oil and gas, defense and security, sports, and food that is always a favorite topic here. If you are a Tim Hortons fan, we are pleased to announce that we will soon be launching our 60th Anniversary Friendship Blend which you will be able to enjoy throughout Ramadan, combining the special flavors of Canada and Kuwait. Also, stay tuned for our social media campaign, which will highlight some of the wonderful people who form a bond between Canada and Kuwait.' She concluded her speech by extending her best wishes to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and the Kuwaiti people on the auspicious occasion of the National Day and Liberation Day. 'Long live Kuwait and its people. I would like to thank you for your long-standing friendship, which will continue to extend into the future. In a world where communication and cooperation are more important than ever, we must uphold human dignity and strive for a sustainable future for everyone. Together, we can ensure that the Canada-Kuwait partnership remains strong and enduring, as we collectively work towards peace, security, and prosperity for our two countries and a brighter future for generations to come.'
