Spain Renews Pledge to Deepen Strategic Partnership with Kuwait

According to Times Kuwait, Kuwait’s strategic partnership with Spain was reaffirmed during a National Day reception hosted by the Spanish Embassy. The Gulf state continues to serve as a key partner for European efforts to promote stability in the region.

Reaffirmed Strategic Partnership

The Spanish Ambassador to Kuwait, Manuel Hernandez Gamayo, said Spain has renewed its pledge to deepen ties with Kuwait and move the bilateral relationship toward a strategic partnership, noting that cooperation will grow in defence, health care, cyber security, food security and economic investment. Speaking at the Sunday evening reception hosted by the Spanish Embassy to mark Spain’s National Day, he described Kuwait as a regional pillar of moderation and peace, highlighting its long-standing mediation work, respect for international law and humanitarian contributions worldwide. He added that Spain values its historic relationship with Kuwait and seeks to strengthen collaboration amid changing regional and international challenges.

Economic and Strategic Cooperation

The reception was attended by Deputy Foreign Minister Ambassador Hamad Al-Mashaan, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Defence Sheikh Dr Abdullah Meshaal Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of international organisations and the Spanish community in Kuwait. The ambassador said Kuwaiti-Spanish relations are gaining fresh momentum, citing a forthcoming round of bilateral political consultations in Madrid on October 7. He explained that the two countries have agreed to create a strategic political dialogue supported by high-level meetings and specialist working groups that will address matters of mutual interest.

He pointed out that Spanish exports to Kuwait have risen in recent years and that imports from Kuwait to Spain increased by more than 200 percent in 2025 compared with the previous year. Spanish firms operate in Kuwait across renewable energy, oil, civil aviation and transport infrastructure, reflecting Spain’s backing of Kuwait’s development and economic progress. Preparations are under way for the next meeting of the Kuwaiti-Spanish Joint Economic Committee in Madrid in 2027, which is expected to broaden investment chances and strengthen ties between companies and institutions in both nations. Beyond trade, the link includes growing travel by Kuwaitis to Spain, Kuwaiti investment in the Spanish property market and rising interest among Kuwaiti students in Spanish universities. Measures to simplify Schengen visa procedures have also made consular services quicker and smoother.

Regional Solidarity and Diplomatic Support

On regional and international developments, the ambassador condemned attacks aimed at Gulf states and essential civilian infrastructure, stressing the need to honour international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter. He reaffirmed Spain’s view of Kuwait as an important partner for regional stability and praised the resilience of the Kuwaiti people, as well as the dedication and professionalism of those who protect the country and keep citizens and residents safe. He also conveyed a message of solidarity from Spain’s King to the Crown Prince, Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah. Spain, he added, backs stronger strategic ties between the European Union and the Gulf Cooperation Council and hopes the forthcoming EU-GCC summit will turn political promises into practical cooperation.

People-to-People Links

The ambassador highlighted the Spanish community in Kuwait as a vital part of local society. Spanish nationals work in fields such as engineering, business, medicine, education, management, physiotherapy, veterinary medicine, sport and professional training. Their involvement in Kuwait’s professional and social life illustrates the people-to-people dimension of the bilateral relationship, complementing diplomatic, trade, investment and security collaboration. The National Day reception highlighted the breadth of Kuwait-Spain ties and the shared aim to build on existing foundations through sustained political dialogue, economic engagement and cooperation in sectors of mutual strategic importance.