Spanish Ambassador to Kuwait H.E. Manuel Hernández Gamayo said Spain has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ties with Kuwait and advancing bilateral relations towards a strategic partnership, with cooperation set to expand across defense, healthcare, cybersecurity, food security and economic investment.
Addressing the gathering during a reception hosted by the Spanish Embassy on Sunday evening to mark Spain’s National Day, the Spanish envoy described Kuwait as a regional pillar of moderation and peace, praising its longstanding role in mediation, commitment to international law and humanitarian contributions worldwide. He stressed that Spain valued its longstanding relationship with Kuwait and was keen to deepen cooperation amid evolving regional and international challenges.
The event was attended by Deputy Foreign Minister Ambassador Hamad Al-Mashaan, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Defense Sheikh Dr Abdullah Meshaal Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of international organizations and members of the Spanish community in Kuwait.
The ambassador said Kuwaiti-Spanish relations were experiencing renewed momentum, pointing to an upcoming round of bilateral political consultations in Madrid on October 7. The two countries had agreed to work towards establishing a strategic political dialogue supported by high-level meetings and specialized working groups covering issues of mutual interest.
Expanding economic and strategic cooperation
Economic ties remain a key component of the relationship. Ambassador Gamayo highlighted the growth of Spanish exports to Kuwait in recent years and noted that Spanish imports from Kuwait increased by more than 200 percent in 2025 compared with the previous year.
Spanish companies are active in Kuwait across several strategic sectors, including renewable energy, oil, civil aviation and transport infrastructure. The ambassador said their presence reflected Spain’s commitment to supporting Kuwait’s development and economic progress, said the ambassador.
He went on to say, preparations are also underway for the next meeting of the Kuwaiti-Spanish Joint Economic Committee in Madrid in 2027. The meeting is expected to provide a platform for expanding investment opportunities and strengthening partnerships between companies and institutions in both countries.
Beyond trade, the relationship encompasses growing travel by Kuwaitis to Spain, Kuwaiti investment in the Spanish real estate market and increasing interest among Kuwaiti students in Spanish universities. Ambassador Gamayo also noted that measures to facilitate Schengen visa procedures had helped make consular services smoother and faster.
Solidarity amid regional challenges
Addressing regional and international developments, the ambassador condemned attacks targeting Gulf states and vital civilian infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of respecting international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter. He reiterated Spain’s view of Kuwait as an important partner in promoting regional stability and praised the resilience of the Kuwaiti people, as well as the dedication and professionalism of those working to protect the country and ensure the safety of citizens and residents.
Ambassador Gamayo also referred to a message from Spain’s King, conveying solidarity and support for the people of Kuwait to His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah.
Spain, he added, supports stronger strategic relations between the European Union and the Gulf Cooperation Council, expressing hope that the next EU-GCC summit would translate political commitments into practical cooperation.
Spanish community strengthens people-to-people ties
The ambassador paid tribute to the Spanish community in Kuwait, describing it as an integral part of Kuwaiti society. Spanish nationals contribute to a wide range of fields, including engineering, business, medicine, education, management, physiotherapy, veterinary medicine, sports and professional training.
Their participation in Kuwait’s professional and social life, he said, reflects the people-to-people dimension of bilateral relations, complementing cooperation in diplomacy, trade, investment and security.
The National Day reception underscored the breadth of Kuwait-Spain relations and the shared ambition to build on established ties through sustained political dialogue, economic engagement and cooperation in sectors of mutual strategic importance.
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