Kuwaiti Defence Minister Praises Strong Kuwaiti-UK Relations

KUWAIT CITY, October 19, 2010 - Bolstering already strong ties with the United Kingdom, First Deputy
Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah
(en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaber_Al-Mubarak_Al-Hamad_Al-Sabah) met with
British Defence Secretary Liam Fox (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liam_Fox) in
London on October 15. In opening a fresh dialogue with Fox, Sheikh Jaber also
took the opportunity to congratulate him on his new tenure following the
parliamentary elections in May.

The officials had a fruitful discussion (
www.kuna.net.kw/NewsAgenciesPublicSite/ArticleDetails.aspx?Language=en&id=2118129
) on shared defence priorities and set a path to continue collaboration on
future defence relations. In recognition of the long standing relationship
between the Kuwaiti and British militaries, Sheikh Jaber said that the strong
bond with the British was helpful to the formation of the Kuwaiti army. He
pointed out that the Kuwaiti military still utilizes sophisticated British
weaponry and military assets which play a crucial role in maintaining the
Kuwaiti military's operational readiness.

"My talks with Secretary Fox set a path for more progress. We will
continue communicating and I believe that our relationship will help to
further strengthen our armed forces, maintain military readiness and help
sustain a secure Kuwait and a secure Gulf region," Sheikh Jaber stated.

The discussions with Secretary Fox also dealt with ways of combating
terror, a mutually shared concern. Both individuals agreed that a stepped up,
coordinated effort is necessary.

Also discussed was a recent measure taken by the British government
regarding Kuwait citizens attaining entry visas in the United Kingdom. Sheikh
Jaber also expressed gratitude for the UK's participation in the 50th
anniversary of Kuwait's independence and the 20th anniversary of Kuwait's
liberation. Talks concluded with the First Deputy Premier offering an open
invitation to Defence Secretary Fox to visit Kuwait.

This has been issued by Al Madar. For more information, visit
www.almadar-kw.com/

Hani Megahed of Al Madar, +965-2266-6008