Latest news with #BelindaLewis


Arab Times
26-05-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
UK, Kuwait mark 250 years of trade with green tech alliance
KUWAIT CITY, May 26: The British Embassy organized a reception for green energy stakeholders on Sunday evening. In a press statement, the embassy revealed that the reception showcased leading UK sustainable energy systems company Green Power Technologies (GPT)'s 'Power Box' -- a durable off-grid power unit designed to deliver clean energy in remote and challenging environments. It also marked the launching of Kuwait British Renewables (KBR) -- a joint venture between GPT and local power company General Control Group to design and manufacture smart metering systems and electric vehicle charging stations in the country. The reception was held under the patronage of Chairman of the Commercial Bank of Kuwait Sheikh Ahmad Duaij Al-Sabah and British Ambassador to the State of Kuwait, Belinda Lewis. The event highlighted the strength of the 250-year-long trading partnership between the UK and Kuwait, as well as the two countries' shared commitment to expand collaboration in the fight against climate change. Addressing the guests, Lewis stated: 'The United Kingdom and Kuwait have long enjoyed a close relationship based on shared values and strategic cooperation. Events such as this reaffirm the growing depth of our partnership; particularly as both nations seek to meet climate goals, embrace clean technology, and build knowledge-based economies. Forty-nine percent of the UK's electricity comes from renewable sources and we are actively supporting our partners, including Kuwait, to achieve their own energy transition goals.' Country Director for Trade at the embassy Naz Demir added: 'As we celebrate 250 years of UK-Kuwait trading relations, this launch is a powerful example of how our historic partnership continues to evolve and deliver real impact. Kuwait British Renewables reflects a shared vision for sustainable growth and energy innovation. The UK remains committed to supporting Kuwait's Vision 2035 through strategic investment and world-class expertise in clean technology.' Green Power Technologies (UK) Director Christopher Maltby commented: 'We are proud to bring British innovation to Kuwait with the launch of the Power Box -- a practical, scalable solution for clean, off-grid energy. This marks the beginning of a long-term commitment to support Kuwait's energy transition with smart, sustainable technology tailored to local needs.' Director of Kuwait British Renewables Richard Clements stated: 'Our goal is to localize world-class energy technology by producing smart meters and EV infrastructure right here in Kuwait. Alongside our sister company -- GPT, KBR will also source worldleading solar and battery storage solutions for installations in both homes and businesses. We are excited to be part of this national journey towards a digital, low-carbon energy future -- built in Kuwait, for Kuwait.'

Kuwait Times
25-05-2025
- General
- Kuwait Times
Cardiff mural celebrates 125 years of UK–Kuwait ties
The British Embassy in Kuwait and Cardiff University have announced the completion of a collaborative mural celebrating 125 years of official diplomatic relations between the United Kingdom and Kuwait. Painted by British artist Lee Ferry, the mural is the second and final part of a public art project that began last year in Kuwait. The first murals, located at the British Embassy in Kuwait and completed in November, depict elements of UK and Kuwaiti cultures, with a focus on their shared postage and maritime history. The newly unveiled murals are located in Trevithick Gardens, a popular green space on the Cardiff University campus. They highlight the cultural ties between the UK and Kuwait through symbols such as the Welsh dragon and daffodil alongside the Kuwaiti falcon and arfaj flower. Traditional Sadu and Celtic patterns are woven into the design, while a bee and butterfly symbolize the garden's role as a haven for biodiversity and student wellbeing. British Ambassador to Kuwait Belinda Lewis welcomed the mural's completion as part of a series of events celebrating the 125-year milestone. 'Joint celebrations to mark 125 years of official diplomatic relations served to highlight our two countries' unique partnership and showcase the creativity and talent from the UK's four home nations,' she said. The murals at the British Embassy in Kuwait. 'From the creation of this beautiful new mural at Wales' Cardiff University; to author/illustrator Clive McFarland's visit which offered a glimpse of Northern Ireland's vibrant literary scene; to the creation of a special 'Partnership 125' tartan combining Scottish and Kuwaiti weaving materials, patterns, colours and techniques; to the launch of a horticultural exchange programme at England's Highgrove House and Gardens, celebrations have involved every corner of the UK,' she added. Professor Rudolf Allemann, Pro Vice-Chancellor for International at Cardiff University, praised the mural as a symbol of cultural collaboration. "This beautiful artwork at the heart of Trevithick Gardens celebrates 125 years of partnership with Kuwait. Cardiff University has a long tradition of welcoming students from Kuwait, and the mural reflects this by bringing together Kuwaiti and Celtic traditions and imagery. It symbolises the ambitions of this international partnership to create positive change and drive innovation that builds a better world for generations to come," he said. Artist Lee Ferry, founder of Custom Artwerk, said the mural was inspired by his visit to Kuwait last year. 'It was an absolute honour to be asked to design and paint this mural. I sought to draw on my experiences visiting Kuwait last year, which allowed me to get a feel for the country, culture and its shared history with the UK. Using what I had learned about the partnership between our two countries and throwing Welsh culture in the mix, I eventually came up with a mural that brings together our respective national identities. I've loved taking on this challenge and am thrilled that I got to learn something new while adding a splash of colour to brighten up everyday life. "


Arab Times
22-05-2025
- General
- Arab Times
UK–Kuwait Mural Project Completed in Cardiff
KUWAIT CITY, May 22: The British Embassy and Cardiff University are proud to announce the completion of a collaborative mural. Commissioned during last year's celebrations to mark a century and a quarter of UK-Kuwait official diplomatic relations, the mural - painted by British artist Lee Ferry, is the second and final part of a public art project that commenced in Kuwait last year. The first part, completed at the British Embassy in November, reflects elements of the UK and Kuwait's respective cultures, and shared postage and maritime history. This new second part, situated in Trevithick Gardens—a popular green space within the Cardiff University campus— celebrates the cultural richness that has underpinned the UK–Kuwait partnership across more than 125 years. Featuring the Welsh dragon and daffodil alongside the Kuwaiti falcon and Arfaj flower, it skilfully interweaves traditional Kuwaiti Sadu and Celtic patterns - while a bee and butterfly reflect the garden's role as a space for biodiversity and student wellbeing. Welcoming the mural's completion, Her Excellency Belinda Lewis, British Ambassador to the State of Kuwait, said: 'Joint celebrations to mark 125 years of official diplomatic relations served to highlight our two countries' unique partnership and to showcase the creativity and talent from the UK's four home nations. From the creation of this beautiful new mural at Wales' Cardiff University; to author / illustrator Clive McFarland's visit which offered a glimpse of Northern Ireland's vibrant literary scene; to the creation of a special "Partnership 125" tartan combining Scottish and Kuwaiti weaving materials, patterns, colours and techniques; to the launch of a horticultural exchange programme at England's Highgrove House and Gardens, celebrations have involved every corner of the UK.' Professor Rudolf Allemann, Pro Vice-Chancellor for International at Cardiff University stated: "This beautiful artwork at the heart of Trevithick Gardens celebrates 125 years of partnership with Kuwait. Cardiff University has a long tradition of welcoming students from Kuwait, and the mural reflects this by bringing together Kuwaiti and Celtic traditions and imagery. It symbolises the ambitions of this international partnership to create positive change and drive innovation that builds a better world for generations to come." British artist and founder of Custom Artwerk, Lee Ferry added: 'It was an absolute honour to be asked to design and paint this mural. I sought to draw on my experiences visiting Kuwait last year, which allowed me to get a feel for the country, culture and its shared history with the UK. Using what I had learned about the partnership between our two countries and throwing Welsh culture in the mix, I eventually came up with a mural that brings together our respective national identities. I've loved taking on this challenge and am thrilled that I got to learn something new while adding a splash of colour to brighten up everyday life. "

Kuwait Times
19-05-2025
- Sport
- Kuwait Times
British Embassy marks Women's Day, launches Women's Diwaniya
KUWAIT: The British Embassy hosted its inaugural 'Women's Diwaniya' on Sunday, May 18, bringing together female leaders from many different sectors to mark Kuwaiti Women's Day on Friday, May 16. This new initiative - which is set to run on a quarterly basis, reflects the Embassy's ongoing commitment to strengthening partnerships with female leaders and creating dedicated spaces where they can network and discuss key issues. The decision to launch a Women's Diwaniya follows the success of the Women in Business-themed Ghabga the Embassy hosted during Ramadan - and builds on broader efforts to support and empower women and girls through initiatives such as its 'Future Female Leaders in Sport' program, run in collaboration with the UK's 'Safeguarding Alliance' and Kuwait's Public Authority for Sport. Speaking at the event, Belinda Lewis, British Ambassador to Kuwait, said: 'Kuwaiti Women's Day offers a moment to celebrate the incredible achievements of women here, both past and present, and to inspire the next generation of female leaders. It is also a chance to reflect on the shared and different challenges faced by women across the world, the progress made and barriers still to be dismantled. I am proud that the British Embassy team has hosted this evening's Women's Diwaniya, where female leaders from many different sectors can connect, collaborate and support one another.'


Arab Times
19-05-2025
- Sport
- Arab Times
Marking Kuwaiti Women's Day, British Embassy Launches ‘Women's Diwaniya'
KUWAIT CITY, May 19: On 18 May, the British Embassy hosted its inaugural 'Women's Diwaniya', bringing together female leaders from many different sectors to mark last Friday's Kuwaiti Women's Day. This new initiative - which is set to run on a quarterly basis, reflects the Embassy's ongoing commitment to strengthening partnerships with female leaders and creating dedicated spaces where they can network and discuss key issues. The decision to launch a Women's Diwaniya follows the success of the Women in Business-themed Ghabga the Embassy hosted during Ramadan - and builds on broader efforts to support and empower women and girls through initiatives such as its 'Future Female Leaders in Sport' programme, run in collaboration with the UK's 'Safeguarding Alliance' and Kuwait's Public Authority for Sport. Speaking at the event, Her Excellency Belinda Lewis, British Ambassador to the State of Kuwait, said: 'Kuwaiti Women's Day offers a moment to celebrate the incredible achievements of women here, both past and present, and to inspire the next generation of female leaders. It is also a chance to reflect on the shared and different challenges faced by women across the world, the progress made and barriers still to be dismantled. I am proud that the British Embassy team has hosted this evening's Women's Diwaniya, where female leaders from many different sectors can connect, collaborate and support one another.'