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Arab Times
4 days ago
- General
- Arab Times
Kuwait begins work on Gulf War memorial in Washington, D.C.
WASHINGTON, May 29: Kuwait's Ambassador to the United States, Sheikha Al-Zain Al-Sabah, announced Wednesday the start of construction on a memorial dedicated to Operations Desert Storm and Desert Shield, to be located in a prominent area of downtown Washington, D.C. The memorial is set to be officially inaugurated in the fall of 2026. Speaking to KUNA during the Kuwaiti Embassy's participation in the U.S. Memorial Day commemorations, Ambassador Al-Sabah said, 'This historic memorial is a gift from the State of Kuwait to the American people in honor of the heroic deeds written with the lives and blood of Americans and Kuwaitis together.' She emphasized that the memorial will serve not only as a tribute to past sacrifices but as a lasting symbol of the partnership forged during a critical moment in history. 'It will stand in the heart of Washington as a testament to the sacrifices made in defense of sovereignty, freedom, and justice, and as a powerful message about the depth of Kuwaiti-American ties,' she added. The ambassador underscored that the project reflects 'the Kuwaiti people's sincere appreciation for the United States' historic role in the liberation of Kuwait from the Iraqi invasion in 1991.' She noted that the initiative also highlights the ongoing mutual commitment to peace and shared values that continue to shape the strong relationship between both nations. Ambassador Al-Sabah concluded by noting that the embassy's annual participation in Memorial Day observances is a continuation of that commitment. 'It is a reflection of the loyalty and enduring friendship that remain the cornerstone of Kuwaiti-American relations,' she said. Memorial Day is observed annually on the last Monday of May to honor American service members who lost their lives in war. The tradition dates back to May 30, 1868, when the first official ceremony was held at Arlington National Cemetery in the Washington, D.C. area.
Kuwait Times
4 days ago
- General
- Kuwait Times
Work begins on Desert Storm and Shield memorial
Artist's rendering of the Desert Storm and Desert Shield Memorial in Washington. WASHINGTON: Kuwait's Ambassador to the United States Sheikha Al-Zain Al-Sabah announced on Wednesday the commencement of construction of a memorial for Operations Desert Storm and Desert Shield at a prominent location in downtown Washington. The memorial is scheduled to be inaugurated in the fall of 2026. In a statement to KUNA during Kuwait's participation in the US Memorial Day commemorations, Ambassador Al-Zain said: 'This historic monument is a gift from the State of Kuwait to the American people, honoring the heroism written in the lives and blood of both Americans and Kuwaitis.' She added that the memorial 'will not only stand as a witness to the past, but as a permanent symbol of a unique partnership proven strong in a pivotal moment in history, when blood was shed together on the battlefield in defense of sovereignty, freedom and justice. The monument will stand in the heart of Washington to embody and immortalize these sacrifices for future generations and to serve as a powerful message about the depth of Kuwaiti-American ties.' The ambassador affirmed that the project reflects 'the sincere appreciation of the Kuwaiti people for the historic stance of the United States during the liberation of Kuwait from the Iraqi invasion in 1991. It embodies the mutual commitment to maintaining peace and promoting the shared values that continue to form the foundation of the relationship between the two nations.' She concluded by emphasizing that the embassy's annual participation in the Memorial Day event is 'an extension of this commitment and a reflection of the spirit of loyalty and friendship that remains the cornerstone of Kuwaiti-American relations'. Memorial Day is an annual occasion to honor soldiers 'who sacrificed their lives for the nation' in various American wars. It is observed every year on the last Monday of May. The first celebration of this occasion was held on May 30, 1868, at Arlington Cemetery in the Washington area. – KUNA
Arab Times
23-03-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
US commerce secretary's remarks on Kuwait trade policies spark backlash
KUWAIT CITY, March 23: US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick's remarks have sparked widespread controversy after he criticized Kuwait by accusing it of imposing the highest tariffs on American products, reports Al-Seyassah daily. According to Lutnick, the United States spent 'nearly $100 billion to liberate Kuwait'. He went on to recall his country's efforts to extinguish Kuwaiti oil wells after the Iraqi invasion, stating, 'This must stop'. These statements have been widely criticized by politicians and media figures in Kuwait, who have described them as containing several inaccuracies and false claims. Many have called for the comments to be treated seriously but also viewed within a broader context. In this regard, former MP Saleh Al-Mulla stressed that the information cited by the US Secretary of Commerce is, at best, false. He indicated via his X account that it is important to read such messages carefully and attentively. Al-Mulla called for these remarks to serve as a 'wakeup call' to raise awareness about the global changes taking place, insisting these changes necessitate internal cohesion, unity, political stability, and a renewed commitment to a balanced foreign policy and diversified partnerships. Meanwhile, former MP Dr. Jinan Boushahri warned against dismissing the US Secretary of Commerce's statement regarding Kuwait's failure to pay the costs of the liberation war as a mere passing comment. She highlighted that US President Donald Trump had made similar statements during the 2011 presidential election race. Boushahri said Kuwait is not immune from the US administration's scrutiny in its trade wars or potential escalatory measures related to money or oil wealth. While she acknowledged that foreign affairs fall under the government's responsibility, she stressed the need for the government to take a deeper look at the local situation, and listen to genuine national opinions rather than those seeking influence or power. Boushahri affirmed the importance of strengthening national unity and combating divisive ideas, highlighting that while Kuwaiti-American relations have a long history, the global conditions have shifted, and positions of importance have evolved. Furthermore, media personality Ahmed Al-Barjas explained via his X account that Kuwait, through the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), enforces a unified customs tariff of five percent on nearly all goods, which is lower than that of many other countries. He said, 'Spreading misleading information like this could damage relations with allies who have stood by the United States during critical moments. Kuwaitis deeply appreciate the role the United States played in the liberation and have consistently shown this appreciation through meaningful contributions and ongoing cooperation.' In addition, former MP Essam Al-Dabbous stressed that the US Secretary of State's statement is both dangerous and contrary to the truth. He insisted that Kuwait adopts fair trade policies designed to protect and develop its economic interests, and it always adheres to international trade principles as a member of the World Trade Organization. Al-Dabbous highlighted that Kuwait strives to maintain balance in its economic relations with all countries, including the United States while respecting mutual rights and interests. He indicated that such statements should be addressed through diplomatic channels, rather than through methods that could be seen as political blackmail.
