by Ncaba Ntshakala
Kuwait has signalled its willingness to finance viable projects in Eswatini, inviting the Kingdom to propose initiatives that align with Kuwait’s development goals.
This invitation was made by Crown Prince His Highness Sheikh Sabah Khalid Al-Sabah during a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini in New York.
The Prime Minister is currently representing His Majesty King Mswati III at the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly in the United States.
During their discussion, the Prime Minister highlighted Eswatini’s dedication to economic development, outlining plans for an upcoming Global Investment Conference slated for early next year.
The conference aims to attract significant investments, particularly in the sectors of Energy, Agriculture, ICT, and Tourism and Hospitality.
Dlamini formally invited Kuwaiti investors to participate in the conference and explore the investment opportunities available in Eswatini.
The conversation between the Prime Minister and His Highness Sheikh Sabah Khalid Al-Sabah also focused on enhancing the longstanding diplomatic relationship, which has lasted 28 years, between the two countries.
RELATED: Prime Minister calls for inclusion of Taiwan in international system
Both leaders acknowledged their historical ties and reviewed the eight Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) already established between Eswatini and Kuwait.
His Highness stressed the importance of promptly activating these agreements and urged both nations to encourage their officials to ensure these frameworks are fully operational.
A key topic in their discussions was the establishment of a Kuwaiti Embassy in Eswatini, which remains pending despite land being allocated for it.
The Prime Minister expressed his eagerness to see the diplomatic infrastructure completed, emphasizing the importance of strengthening formal ties.
With his extensive background as Kuwait’s former foreign minister and chair of the Kuwait Fund, Sheikh Sabah Khalid Al-Sabah reassured the Prime Minister of Kuwait’s ongoing commitment to fortifying its relationship with Eswatini.
The Premier also took the opportunity to showcase Eswatini’s stable regional relations, especially with South Africa and Mozambique, positioning the Kingdom as an appealing and peaceful destination for foreign investment.
He noted the nation’s relative security compared to its regional neighbours, which presents a significant advantage for potential investors from Kuwait and elsewhere.
RELATED: Japan’s Prime Minister Kishida to resign, paving way for new leader
Additionally, the Prime Minister discussed Eswatini’s trade relations with China and Taiwan. While Eswatini does not maintain formal diplomatic ties with China, Dlamini pointed out the Kingdom’s pragmatic approach to international partnerships, including its trade connections with both nations.
He explained that this approach aligns with Eswatini’s broader efforts to rejuvenate and strengthen its relationship with Kuwait.
As a proactive step, the Prime Minister asked that details about the upcoming Global Investment Conference be shared with the Kuwaiti embassy to make sure that they engaged and participated.
His Highness Sheikh Sabah Khalid Al-Sabah reaffirmed Kuwait’s commitment to deepening its ties with Eswatini, also extending greetings to His Majesty King Mswati III and conveying the warm regards of His Majesty, the Emir of Kuwait.
The meeting concluded with both leaders reiterating their dedication to enhancing diplomatic and economic relations, expediting the completion of pending agreements, and unlocking investment potential between their nations.
