A reception marking the 65th Anniversary of the National Day and the 35th Anniversary of the Liberation Day of the State of Kuwait, was hosted on Tuesday 10 February by Mr. Ibrahim Aldai, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. at the Embassy of the State of Kuwait. Among the distinguished guests were H.E. Prof. dr. Jan Peter Balkenende, former Prime Minister of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, H.E. Mrs. Guusje Korthals Altes, Director of the Middle East and North Africa Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and Ms. Gabriella Sancisi, Director of the Protocol and Host Country Affairs Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, as well as other representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, representatives of international institutions, and members of the diplomatic corps.

In his address, Mr. Aldai highlighted the strong and long-standing relations between the State of Kuwait and the Kingdom of the Netherlands, emphasizing that bilateral ties are grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and open dialogue. He noted that cooperation between the two nations has expanded across political, economic, and cultural domains, alongside close coordination in international forums on issues of shared concern, reflecting a joint commitment to peace and stability.

Mr. Aldai underscored Kuwait’s appreciation for the Netherlands’ prominent global role in promoting international law, justice, and cooperation. He pointed to The Hague as a unique global hub for international law and diplomacy, hosting major institutions such as the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, International Court of Justice, International Criminal Court, and Permanent Court of Arbitration. He stressed that the presence of these bodies reflects the importance of international cooperation, shared responsibility, and trust among nations in supporting global peace and security.

On the economic front, Mr. Aldai expressed pride in the presence of Kuwait Petroleum International, locally known as Tango. As the international arm of Kuwait Petroleum Corporation, the company plays a significant role in the marketing and the distribution of fuels and lubricants across Europe. As it continues to expand its activities in areas such as aviation and refining, this highlights the strength of the Kuwait–Netherlands energy partnership, built on trust and shared interests.

He also noted the growth in people-to-people and cultural exchanges, pointing to a rising number of Kuwaiti visitors to the Netherlands, attracted by its rich cultural heritage, historic landmarks, and welcoming environment. This trend reflects the close and friendly ties between the two peoples.

“I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands for its continued cooperation, and for the support extended to diplomatic missions and international institutions,” Mr. Aldai stated, while thanking members of the diplomatic corps and representatives of international bodies for joining the celebration.

The reception underscored the enduring friendship between Kuwait and the Netherlands and reaffirmed their shared commitment to cooperation, dialogue, and international peace and security.