Tenth UK-Kuwait Joint Steering Group
Further steps in UK-Kuwait cooperation agreed at the latest Joint Steering Group meeting
The Tenth meeting of the biannual UK-Kuwait Joint Steering Group took place in London on 4-5 July 2017, co-chaired by the UK’s Minister for the Middle East, Mr Alistair Burt MP, and Kuwait’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Ambassador Khaled Al Jarallah.
The Ministers thanked officials for progress made during the work of the Joint Steering Group and agreed to examine new areas such as international development and humanitarian affairs at the next meeting in Kuwait. Signing a formal action plan, they expressed their commitment to working together over the next six months to advance the close Kuwait – UK relationship to the benefit of both countries.
Ministers agreed to continue to develop collaboration on trade, migration, security, defence, cyber security, healthcare, science, education and culture. Both sides underlined the importance of the Joint Steering Group to fostering closer ties and to realise technical level cooperation -the breadth of discussions demonstrating that the historic relationship, built around the cornerstones of defence, security and trade, continues to evolve to meet modern challenges, including cyber security. They also welcomed the deepening of defence cooperation which remained strong. Both sides affirmed their commitment to ongoing work to refresh the Defence Cooperation Accord.
The discussion on security focussed on combating shared threats, including protecting aviation interests through improved airport security. Together, the Ministers committed to continuing to support efforts by British and Kuwaiti businesses to increase trade links and investment. Cooperation in the field of healthcare and health infrastructure was also discussed. Both sides remain committed to removing barriers and to promote increased travel, study, business and trade.
Ministers also affirmed their strong commitment to continuing to cooperate on scientific and innovation research collaboration, education and the importance of cultural exchanges. These continue to be an important opportunity to build on our shared history and values, and engage the next generation of leaders and academics.
Exchanging views on recent political developments in the Middle East region, Mr Burt and Ambassador Al Jarallah also had a closed discussion with the British Minister underlining UK support for Kuwait’s mediation efforts to bring a resolution to the Qatar dispute.
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