在日クウェート国大使館

12/14/2011
Kuwaiti-Japanese Businessmen''s Committee explores future cooperation

Kuwaiti and Japanese businessmen on Wednesday pledged more active economic ties and explored future cooperation between the two countries in various fields, including infrastructure projects. In his congratulatory speech addressing the 16th Kuwaiti-Japanese Businessmen's Committee here, Japanese Vice-Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Keiro Kitagami renewed Japan's gratitude for unstinted assistance, and expressions of condolences and sympathies from Kuwait in the wake of the March disasters, especially the donation of 5 million barrels of crude oil. "On behalf of the Japanese government and the people, I would like to extend sincere thanks to H.H. the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Kuwaiti government and people for their sense of solidarity and generosity, which deeply touched us," Kitagami said. Kuwait's contribution of 5 million barrels of crude oil, equivalent to some USD 500 million, was decided in April upon directives of H.H. the Amir in the wake of a 9.0-magnitude earthquake and tsunami on March 11 that left nearly 21, 000 people dead or missing.
"We have already received all 5 million barrels of oil by last month and the donation is used for recovery efforts in the disaster-hit area," said Kitagami.
He also highlighted Japanese firms' interests in participation and technical cooperation in Kuwait 's Five-Year Development Plan running through 2014, such as water system, railway, oil refinery, seaport and environment. Noting that the two countries celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties this year, Kitagami said Wednesday's committee will further promote Kuwait-Japan friendship and comprehensive cooperation. Kuwaiti outgoing Minister of State for Planning and Development Affairs Abdulwahab Al-Haroun welcomed Japan's active engagement in various projects under the development plan, in which the Kuwaiti government will spend USD 102 billion in the next four years in order to transform the country into an international economic hub. Al-Haroun also commended a role played by the committee in the development of bilateral commercial and economic relations between the two countries, underlining the committee's significant assistance in conducting a feasibility study for introduction of Integrated Solar Combined Cycle technology to Kuwait that could ease its severe electricity shortage every summer. The one-day talks, which brought together some 120 government officials and businessmen from various sectors of both countries, will be followed by a seminar on investment opportunities in Kuwait on Thursday.
The Kuwaiti delegation included officials from Supreme Council for Planning and Development, Partnerships Technical Bureau, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Researches, Kuwait Metro Rapid Transportation Co., Kuwait Foreign Investment Bureau and other government sectors. For his part, Japanese Ambassador to Kuwait Yasuyoshi Komizo thanked major supports from the Kuwaiti leadership and the people after the March disasters, adding that many Kuwaiti friends have offered support and held charity concerts. "During my visit to Ishinomaki City in the disaster-hit area till yesterday, local people showed their gratitude for Kuwait 's oil donation. At an elementary school in the city, I also delivered pictures drawn by Kuwaiti pupils to the Japanese children, which they welcomed with a deep appreciation. " Komizo also emphasized on the need of enhanced bilateral cooperation in the fields of education and healthcare. The annual economic meeting, co-chaired by Khaled Al-Sager and his Japanese counterpart Hiroshi Saito, came amid growing uncertainty over the global economy and the unfavourable circumstances surrounding the two nations for different reasons, Al-Sager noted in his opening address. "Yet our economies are expected to regain their momentum shortly," said Al-Sager, who also serves as Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry Deputy Chairman. "Last year, the Parliament passed a privatization law and economic development plan. If implemented, the plan will reshape the local economic landscape and provide a stream of major projects to which Japanese investors and business can no doubt contribute a great deal in terms of experience and expertise." According to Al-Sager, bilateral trade value between Kuwait and Japan reached USD 13.44 billion in 2010, and the figure has redoubled four times since the inception of the committee 15 years ago. He also said Japan is Kuwait 's third-biggest supplier after the US and China . National Bank of Kuwait made a presentation about outlook for the Kuwaiti economy and the state-run Kuwait National Offset Company briefed the Japanese side on recent updates of the offset program. The Japanese side outlined Japan's New growth strategy and outlook for its economy. There were also proposals/presentation of a environment-friendly urban development project by Japan's major plant engineering firm JGC Corp., and a modern urban transit system by Hitachi., Ltd., one of the world's biggest monorail manufacturers. Kuwait 's First Secretary Mohammed Al-Mutairi also attended the meeting. The Kuwaiti-Japanese Businessmen's Committee, first launched in 1995, was organized by the Japanese Cooperation Center for the Middle East (JCCME) with the objectives of encouraging and promoting feasible and viable projects and joint ventures available in both countries. Founded in 1973 under the sponsorship of the Japanese government, the JCCME has been promoting Japan's investment and transfer of technology to the Middle East . The non-profit organization also has a Japan Desk in Kuwait , which plays a bridging role between private companies of Kuwait and Japan to help them establish joint ventures.

12/14/2011
Delivery of Kuwait''s oil donation to quake-hit Japan completed

Japan on Wednesday renewed its gratitude for unstinted assistance, and expressions of condolences and sympathies from Kuwait in the wake of the March disasters, especially the donation of five million barrels of crude oil, all of which were already delivered.
This came in a meeting here between outgoing Minister of State for Planning and Development Abdulwahab Al-Haroun and Japanese Vice-Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Keiro Kitagami. "On behalf of the Japanese government and the people, I would like to extend sincere thanks to H.H. the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Kuwaiti government and people for their sense of solidarity and generosity, which deeply touched and encouraged us," Kitagami said. "Your support has evidenced the strong ties between Japan and Kuwait," he said, adding that it has promoted Kuwait-Japan friendship. Kuwait's contribution of five million barrels of crude oil was decided in April upon directives of H.H. the Amir in the wake of a 9.0-magnitude earthquake and tsunami on March 11 that left nearly 21,000 people dead or missing. The first batch of the donated oil arrived in October, and all five million barrels were already delivered to four Japanese refiners by last month, according to Kitagami. The donation was equivalent to some USD 500 million and surpassed Japan's daily consumption of 4.4 million barrels. Money to the value of the free oil are provided to the three hardest-hit prefectures in the northeastern region through the Japan Red Cross, with focusing on eight projects, such as infrastructure recovery and support for education, employment and agriculture. Al-Haroun expressed his heartfelt condolences to the Japanese people. "The support from Kuwait demonstrates our appreciation for the past support from Japan to our country and friendship between the two countries. We also remember that, during the Iraqi invasion, Japan stood by the Kuwaiti right with vital contribution in the liberation war in 1991," he said. Al-Haroun also expressed admiration for the Japanese people for their resilience and endurance in the wake of the disasters, which "impressed the world." Kitagami and Al-Haroun shed light on the smooth growth of Kuwaiti-Japanese relations ever since they first forged diplomatic ties 50 years ago, saying that the two countries have witnessed a sustainable and growing cooperation in various areas. The both officials attended the 16th Kuwaiti-Japanese Businessmen's Committee on Wednesday.
The meeting was attended by Japanese Ambassador to Kuwait Yasuyoshi Komizo, First Secretary at the Kuwaiti Embassy in Japan Mohammed Al-Mutairi, Co-Chairs of the Kuwaiti-Japanese Businessmen's Committee Khaled Al-Sager and Hiroshi Saito. Al-Haroun arrived here on Tuesday.

11/18/2011
H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi meets Mr. Inuzuka, Group Manager, TOYOTA Motor Corporation

H.E. Ambassador Mr. Al-Otaibi met Mr. Takeharu Inuzuka at the Embassy of the State of Kuwait at two thirty. Mr. Inuzuka is a Group Manager belongs to the Middle East Southwest Asia Sales and Marketing Division at the TOYOTA Motor Corporation. In the meeting, they have exchanged ideas and perspectives of the current automobile situation、and confirmed to further promote and enhance the business tie between Kuwait and the TOYOTA Motor Corporation.

11/18/2011
H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Elyes Kasri, Ambassador Designate of Tunisia

H.E. Ambassador Mr. Al-Otaibi received and welcomed a Courtesy Call from H.E. Mr. Elyes Kasri, Ambassador Designate of the Republic of Tunisia in Japan at eleven o’clock. H.E. Mr. Kasri was appointed as Tunisian Ambassador to Japan on August 30th, 2011. After exchanging views regarding bilateral relation and international affairs for about an hour, they have agreed to further promote friendly relations between Kuwait and Tunisia.

11/15/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi hosts a friendly lunch in honor of H.E. Dr. Kazuyuki Hamada, Parliamentary Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi hosted a friendly luncheon in honor of H.E. Dr. Kazuyuki Hamada, Parliamentary Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs. Addressing attendees at the lunch, H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi delivered the opening speech by expressing his sincere appreciation for this occasion and said ‘I have no doubt that H.E. Dr. Hamada will lead and guide the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ambassadors to maximize and deepen their bilateral relations’. In response, H.E. Dr. Hamada, an independent politician, gave a speech and promised that he will make great efforts to maximize the cooperation and friendly relation with the Ambassadors.

Present were;
H.E. Mr. Saeed Ali Yousef Al-Nowais, U.A.E. Ambassador
H.E. Dr. Khalil bin Ibrahim Hassan, Bahraini Ambassador
H.E. Mr. Mohamad El-Harake, Lebanese Ambassador
H.E. Mr. Noor Muhammad Jadmani, Pakistani Ambassador
H.E. Dr. Abdulaziz A. Bin Almas Turkistani, Saudi Ambassador
H.E. Mr. Nikolaos Tsamados, Greek Ambassador
H.E. Mr. Bouna Semou Diouf, Senegal Ambassador
H.E. Dr. Sayed M. Amir Fatimie, Afghan Ambassador
H.E. Mr. Elyes Kasri, Tunisian Ambassador
Ms. Misako Kaji, Deputy Director-General, Middle Eastern and African Affairs Bureau, MOFA
Mr. Kunihiko Higashi, Executive Assistant to H.E. Dr. Hamada, MOFA
Mr. Hirooki Ohashi, Deputy Director, Second Middle East Division, MOFA

10/24/2011
H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Oono, member of the House of Councillors

H.E. Ambassador Mr. Al-Otaibi received a Courtesy Call from H.E. Mr. Motohiro Oono, Member of the House of Councillors (DPJ) at eleven o’clock. H.E. Mr. Oono is a Visiting Research Fellow in Middle Eastern Institute of Japan. In accord with present Arab countries’ movements, their Excellencies discussed and exchanged the current Middle East issues, achievements and future perspectives for about an hour.

10/21/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets Dr. Manny Sultan

Commencing at 2:30 p.m., H.E. Ambassador Mr. Al-Otaibi received a Courtesy Call from Dr. Manny Sultan (Principal of AAS Associates International Co., Ltd., 1st Class Architect). In the meeting, Dr. Sultan has introduced EJSW (Egypt Japan Steel Works). EJSW is cultivating clients from Arab countries and he sought H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi’s advice. H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi and Dr. Sultan actively exchanged their perspectives on business for about an hour.

10/19/2011
Japan''s minister shows sincere appreciation to Kuwait for oil donation

Japanese Disaster Management Minister Tatsuo Hirano on Wednesday showed his sincere appreciation to Kuwait for the 5 million barrels of crude oil donation to Japan in response to the March 11 earthquake and tsunami. During his meeting with Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi here, Hirano, who doubles Minister for Reconstruction in response to the Great East Japan Earthquake, also pledged utmost efforts to distribute the Kuwaiti donation to many people effectively and immediately, noting that he is originally from one of the worst-afflicted areas. The delivery ceremony of crude oil donated by Kuwait was held on Oct. 12 in Yokohama city, eastern Japan, hosted by Minister of Economy, Industry and Trade Yukio Edano. Ambassador Al-Otaibi expressed his heartfelt condolences to Japan and the Japanese people in the northeastern area and told Hirano, "The Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear plant incident is beyond our expectation. Therefore, the role of Minister Hirano is very important for the prompt recovery and reconstruction of Japan." In response, Hirano said, "Although the Japanese government has begun nuclear decontamination in the areas, it takes time. However, I commit myself to conduct the immediate, certain, and safe decontamination." The minister also mentioned that Tokyo has learnt many things from the March 11 disaster, such as how to prepare and how to take action after the natural disaster. "We will continue to study the case of March 11 and transfer the information to the world," he affirmed. Al-Otaibi explained the experience of his visit to Kesennuma city in April and said ,"The area was largely affected by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, but the people maintained their high spirits, and it gives me and the world a great hope." Al-Otaibi and First Secretary Mohammad Al-Mutairi visited the city in northeastern Japan to show Kuwait's solidarity with survivors from the March 11 disaster. While in Kesennuma, Kuwait's top diplomat here also delivered soccer balls, school supplies, food and living necessities on behalf of the government and the people of Kuwait, with two countries' national flags painted, specially-designed 240 soccer balls were chosen to give children here a hopeful future in the aftermath of the catastrophe. Meanwhile, Hirano showed his intention to reinforce friendly Japan-Kuwait relation beyond the oil cooperation, such as cultural and educational cooperation. In addition, he promised to conduct the memorandum of cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, which was signed in September 2010 by Dr. Ahmad Bishara, Secretary General of the Kuwait National Nuclear Energy Committee (KNNEC), and Katsuhiro Hosoi, former Director General of Agency for Natural Resources and Energy under the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

10/19/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Hiroyasu Ando, President of Japan Foundation

H.E. Ambassador Mr. Al-Otaibi paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Hiroyasu Ando, the new President of Japan Foundation. Their Excellencies exchanged their views on means of furthering cultural and educational cooperation between Japan and Kuwait. As the current number of Kuwaiti students in Japan is limited, their Excellencies agreed on committing themselves to enhance the support for exchange programs especially at the university student level.

10/18/2011
Kuwait Commerce Chamber looks at infrastructure, tourims cooperation with

Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) discussed Tuesday ways to boost cooperation for tourism and infrastructure with the visiting Japanese delegation of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. The Japanese delegation headed by the Vice Director General of Policy Planning met with Fahad Al-Jouan, a Board member of KCCI, in the presence of representatives of several Kuwaiti companies to discuss ways to develop trade relations between Japan and Kuwait, especially in the areas of infrastructure and tourism, a statement released by KCCI said. Al-Jouan affirmed that the time was "appropriate" for Japanese companies to invest in Kuwait, through their participation in the overall development projects, assuring them the facilitation and readiness to provide all the means available to Japanese companies from a variety of information and services that lead to the expansion of trade cooperation between the two countries. On his part, the Japanese official thanked the KCCI for the opportunity to meet with Kuwaiti businessmen, stressing the Japanese companies' desire to cooperate with Kuwaiti counterparts in the implementation of joint projects, whether in Kuwait or abroad. The event was an opportunity for Kuwaiti and Japanese companies to hold meetings in order to create mutual understanding and the possibility of trade and investment between the parties. The visiting Japanese delegation included a number of companies operating in the fields of construction, contracting, engineering, architecture, and harbor construction, which presented their activities and projects implemented in Japan and other countries, such as airports, seaports, hotels and tourist resorts.

10/18/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Hiranao Honda, Special Advisor to the Prime Minister

H.E. Ambassador Mr. Al-Otaibi had a meeting with H.E. Mr. Hiranao Honda, Special Advisor to the Prime Minister, Member of the House of Representatives (DPJ). Their Excellencies exchanged their views on the Japanese political situation and means of deepening and expanding the friendly relation between Japan and Kuwait beyond the oil sector. Their Excellencies agreed on committing themselves to work for materializing the high ranked officers’ mutual visit between Japan and Kuwait

10/17/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Shunichi Mizuoka, Special Advisor to the Prime Minister

H.E. Ambassador Mr. Al-Otaibi had a meeting with H.E. Mr. Shunichi Mizuoka, Special Advisor to the Prime Minister, Member of the House of Councillors (DPJ). Their Excellencies exchanged their views on the educational and cultural exchange between Japan and Kuwait and promised that they will cooperate and support each other in order to maximize the bilateral relations for the next generation.

10/14/2011
Courtesy Call on H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi, Ambassador of the State of Kuwait, by Mr. and Mrs.Maruyama

On Friday, October 14, commencing at two, H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi received a courtesy call for about an hour from Mr. and Mrs. Maruyama, who were visiting Tokyo.

10/14/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets Mr. Yoshitaka Abe, Executive Director, Aquamarine Fukushima

H.E. Ambassador Mr. AL-OTAIBI received a courtesy call and a presentation of the damages of Aquamarine Fukushima caused by Tsunami from Mr. Yoshitaka Abe, Executive Director, Aquamarine Fukushima. H.E. Mr. AL-OTAIBI expressed deep sympathy and condolence to Fukushima prefecture, local governments, and Aquamarine Fukushima, and the people who have suffered from the March 11, and hoped that Aquamarine Fukushima will fully repair with the help of Kuwait of whom sent the first crude oil tanker to Japan on October 12. As Mr. Abe used to work at the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), H.E. Mr. AL-OTAIBI expressed his intention to work as a bridge between KISR and Fukushima Prefecture.

Present were:
 Mr. Katsuji Tainaka, Director, NRIS (Network of Red Sea and Indian Ocean Study)
 Mr. Tsuneo Yamada, Director, Fukushima Prefectural Government
 Mr. Seiji Yamada, Desk Chief, Fukushima Prefectural Government
 Mr. Tomohiko Sekiba, General Manager of Administration Department, Aquamarine Fukushima
 Mr. Koue Nemoto, Director, Office for the Promotion of Private Educational Corporations,Lifelong,
　　Learning Promotion Division,Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Japan
 Mr. Yoshitaka Nakamura, Director, Assistant to President, Japan Cooperation Center for the Middle East (JCCME)
 Mr. Abdulaziz Al-Dalah, Third Secretary, the Embassy of the State of Kuwait

10/13/2011
Kuwait oil donation jumpstarts Japan''s reconstruction efforts

Japan renewed gratitude to H.H. the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and the Kuwaiti people for donating five million barrels of crude oil to support its post-quake reconstruction. In his speech at a commemorative reception late on Wednesday to mark an arrival of the first shipment of the Kuwaiti oil aid, Japanese Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yukio Edano said, "On behalf of the Japanese government and the people, I would like to extend sincere thanks to H.H. the Amir and the Kuwaiti government and its people for their sense of solidarity and generosity, which are etched in our mind," he said. A tanker carrying the first batch of the oil donation arrived at JX Nippon Oil Energy Corporation's 340,000-barrel-a-day Negishi refinery in Yokohama, eastern Japan, on Wednesday. Kuwait's contribution of five million barrels of crude oil, provided through Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC), was decided in April upon directives of H.H. the Amir in the wake of a 9.0-magnitude earthquake and tsunami on March 11 that left nearly 21,000 people dead or missing in the northeastern region. The donation is equivalent to some USD 500 million based on the current crude price and surpasses Japan's daily consumption of 4.4 million barrels. "We deeply appreciate for various support, sympathy and encouragement offered by countries from around the world, especially the generous donation by Kuwait," Edano underlined. "This donation serves as a jump-start on our reconstruction efforts," said the minister, confirming Japan's determination towards its early recovery. Noting the aid came at a time when the two countries celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties this year, Edano also said it promotes closer bilateral friendship and comprehensive cooperation. Former Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama said he highly values the "heartwarming gift" from Kuwait during this difficult time, and regards Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi as one of his "irreplaceable friends" in Kuwait. "Ambassador Al-Otaibi paid a visit to the disaster-stricken region to give the people great relief, encouragement and hope. Moreover, his embassy held a charity bazaar to raise funds for the victims. I am truly moved by his initiative action," he underlined. The donated oil will be delivered to four Japanese refiners by the end of this year, and money to the value of the free oil will be provided to the quake victims through the Japan Red Cross. "In our 134-year-old history, it is the first time that Japan Red Cross has received assistance in a form of crude oil," Japan Red Cross President Tadateru Konoe said in the reception. "Kuwait's assistance will remain light and hope for the people in the disaster-stricken area," he said. According to Konoe, the organization plans to use the money for the three hardest-hit prefectures of Miyagi, Iwate and Fukushima with focusing on eight projects, such as infrastructure recovery and support for education, employment and agriculture. Meanwhile, KPC CEO Farouk Al-Zanki said he has the honor to attend the historical ceremony in Japan, calling it "a country of rich culture, history and civilization that has contributed in various aspects, both in the economy and technological progress." "Your handling of the earthquake and tsunami disaster offers lessons for nations on dealing with similar crises," Al-Zanki said. Kuwait has close and old ties with Japan dating back to decades ago, where Arabian Oil Company was the first Japanese company to perform oil exploration 60 years ago. "Since then, the Japanese-Kuwaiti cooperation has persisted and flourished until it reached current level. Today, we see Japan recovering its production after the disaster, which is an achievement that demonstrates the admirable productivity nature of Japanese people," he noted. He also ensured a continued stable supply of oil and petroleum products to Japan. Soon after the disaster, on behalf of the Kuwaiti oil sector, Al-Zanki and KPC executives also paid a visit to the Japanese embassy in Kuwait to convey a message of condolences for the victims and extended their sincere sympathies to the Japanese people. For his part, Ambassador Al-Otaibi said H.H. the Amir is confident that this support will help eliminate the suffering of the Japanese people, and reassured that Kuwait will remain steadfast in its support for Japan's reconstruction efforts. "We cannot forget the support that Japan has offered to us since the independence of our country when it recognized it as a sovereign state and when it sustained our righteous causes, until our present day." He also noted the devastation caused by the earthquake and tsunami and the consequent nuclear problems are beyond imagination. "The Japanese people gave admirable examples of sacrifice, loyalty and discipline and have impressed the whole world. Therefore, we have no doubt that the people of Japan, with its spirit, will be able to rebuild Japan and make it even better than it was before," Al-Otaibi said. The reception was also attended by KPC's high level delegation including International Marketing Managing Director Nassir Al-Mudhaf, Finance and Administration Affairs Managing Director Ali Al-Hajeri, International Marketing Deputy Managing Director Fahad Al-Nashmi as well as representatives from KPC Tokyo office.

10/12/2011
Quake-hit Japan thanks Kuwait''s Amir upon arrival of oil aid

The disaster-hit Japan on Wednesday welcomed an arrival of the first batch of oil aid from Kuwait in a huge ceremony and pledged its early recovery in response to the generous donation. Marking the delivery of Kuwaiti crude at JX Nippon Oil Energy Corporation's 340,000-barrel-a-day Negishi refinery in Yokohama, eastern Japan, Japanese Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yukio Edano expressed gratitude to H.H. the Kuwaiti Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and the Kuwaiti people for the fullest support in solidarity with Japan, whose northeastern region was hit by a 9.0-magnitude earthquake and tsunami on March 11 that left nearly 21,000 people dead or missing. Kuwait's contribution of five million barrels of crude oil, provided through Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC), was decided in April upon directives of H.H. the Amir in order to help the country recover from the March 11 catastrophe. The donation is equivalent to some USD 500 million and surpasses Japan's daily consumption of 4.4 million barrels. "Kuwait has responded promptly and sincerely to our crisis soon after the disaster, with H.H. the Amir and a number of Kuwaiti dignitaries dispatching letters and messages of sympathy. Kuwaiti friends came forward to assist Japan with true sentiments of solidarity and humanity. The Japanese people will never forget the warm encouragements and sympathy given by the Kuwaiti leaders and people," Edano said. "I was also deeply impressed that your people still remember our support to your country during the Iraqi invasion about 20 years ago, and come to help us this time." He noted that the donation was made at a time when the two countries celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties this year, adding that the aid from Kuwait has promoted a feeling of amity between the two peoples and boosted the development of bilateral relations. KPC's CEO Farouk Al-Zanki extended, on his part, his heartfelt condolences to those bereaved and sincere sympathy to all affected by this catastrophe and to their families and friends. He also said in a speech that Kuwait has close and old ties with Japan dating back to decades ago, where Arabian Oil Company was the first Japanese company to perform oil exploration 60 years ago. "Since then, the Japanese-Kuwaiti cooperation has persisted and flourished until it reached current level. Today, we see Japan recovering its production after the disaster, which is an achievement that demonstrates the admirable productivity nature of Japanese people," Al-Zanki said. He also stressed that Kuwait will continue supplies of oil and petroleum products to Japan. For his part, Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi said "Kuwait always offers supports for other countries, as God blessed us and gave us the wealth of oil. It does not matter the type or amount of the oil grant. The most important thing is my country's solidarity with friendly Japan and its people." The ambassador also showed confidence that Japan will rebuild the nation soon, as it proved the ability to bounce back from the devastation in the World War II and has become a global leader of economy and technology. The ceremony was also attended by Japanese Red Cross President Tadateru Konoe, a number of Japanese government officials, representatives from the three hardest-affected areas, as well as KPC's high level delegation including International Marketing Managing Director Nassir Al-Mudhaf and Finance and Administration Affairs Managing Director Ali Al-Hajeri. The donated oil will be delivered to four Japanese refiners by the end of this year, and money to the value of the free oil will be provided to the quake victims through the Japan Red Cross.

10/11/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi hosts a dinner in honor of H.E. Mr. Farooq Al-Zanki, Deputy Chairman & CEO, KPC

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi hosted a welcome reception in honor of H.E. Mr. Farooq Al-Zanki, Deputy Chairman & CEO, Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) and the delegation members; Mr. Naser Al-Mudhaf, Managing Director, International Marketing, Mr. Ali Al-Hajeri, Managing Director, Finance & Admin Affairs, and Mr. Fahad Al-Nashmi, Deputy Managing Director, International Marketing. The KPC delegation members officially visited Japan to attend the Delivery Ceremony of the Donated Crude Oil from the State of Kuwait and the reception party on October 12, 2011, hosted by H.E. Mr.Yukio Edano, Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Japan.

Present were;
- H.E. Dr. Abdul Aziz Bin Almas Turkistani, Saudi Ambassador
- H.E. Mr. Yousef Mohamed Bilal, Qatari Ambassador
- Mr. Waleed Al-Abduljalil, Head of Tokyo Office, KPC
- Mr. Mohammad Zainal, Tokyo Office, KPC
- Mr. Mohammed Al-Mutairi, First Secretary, Kuwait Embassy
- Mr. Saad Almehaini, First Secretary, Kuwait Embassy
- Mr. Abdulaziz Al-Dalah, Third Secretary, Kuwait Embassy

10/8/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi and Madam hosted a dinner party in honor of Dr. Ahmad Saleh Al-Athari, Director of the Kuwait Cultural Office in Australia

Ambassador Al-Otaibi and Madam Al-Otaibi hosted a dinner at the Embassy of the State of Kuwait in Tokyo in honor of Dr. Ahmad Saleh Al-Athari, Director of the Kuwait Cultural Office in Australia and his family. All the Kuwaiti diplomats have participated this welcome dinner with their family. Dr. Al-Athari visited Japan for two weeks from October 1st. One of the main purposes of Dr. Al-Athari’s visit to Japan was to promote exchange programs between Kuwait and Japan. On October 3rd, H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi has received a courtesy call from Dr. Al-Athari and they have exchanged the cultural and educational perspectives of Japan.

10/6/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Kazuyuki HAMADA, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs

H.E. Ambassador Mr. AL-OTAIBI paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Kazuyuki HAMADA, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs. Their Excellencies exchanged their views on the Kuwaiti support for the recovery of Japanese society after the March 11 and the 50th anniversary of the diplomatic ties between Kuwait and Japan. Their Excellencies also agreed on committing themselves to deepen the bilateral relationship in the areas of education and culture for the future.

10/5/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets Mr. Paul Goldsmith, President of ELITE Corporation

H.E. Ambassador Mr. AL-OTAIBI received a courtesy call from Mr. Paul Goldsmith, President of ELITE Corporation and Zagato Ambassador Asia. H.E. Mr. AL-OTAIBI and Mr. Goldsmith discussed about the 2012 event of the Historical, Vintage ＆ Classic Car Museum of Kuwait, under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Nasser Mohammed Al-Ahmed Al Sabah, the Prime Minister of Kuwait, as Mr. Goldsmith has been assisting and preparing the projects.

9/30/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Moriyama, DPJ Member of the House of Representatives

H.E. the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi received the courtesy call from H.E. Mr. Hiroyuki Moriyama, the Member of the House of Representatives, the Democratic Party of Japan. H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi received the presentation regarding Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture, where H.E. Mr. Moriyama is from. And their Excellencies exchanged the views on the new Japanese Government as well as on the Political and Economical Situation in Japan agreed to enhance cooperation to strengthen the friendly bilateral relation between Japan and Kuwait.

7/26/2011
Kuwait Embassy donates to Japan Red Cross Society

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi donated 500,000 Japanese Yen to Japanese Red Cross Society for the sake of helping Japanese victims of the March 11 Earthquake and Tsunami. The meeting was held at the Embassy with the presence of H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi, Mr. Saad Almehaini, First Secretary, and from Japanese Red Cross Society side, H.E. Mr. Tadateru Konoe, President, Mr. Otohiko Hori, Deputy Director General of International Department Operations Sector, and Mr. Takashi Tanaka, Director of Organizational Development Department Administration Sector. H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi decided to support the projects of Japanese Red Cross Society and donated a check of 500,000 Japanese Yen, a part of the proceeds from the Charity Bazaar, which was organized by the Embassy of the State of Kuwait Japan on May 14th, 2011 at the Embassy in Tokyo. H.E. Mr. Konoe, President of Japanese Red Cross Society cum President of International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, promised H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi that Japanese Red Cross Society, a member of the Distribution Committee, which is formed around the local governments of the disaster-affected prefectures of the March 11, will make a good use of the Embassy’s donation. Mr. Konoe also expressed his gratitude to H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi and the Kuwaiti government for the donation of 5 million barrels of crude oil and said that ‘we are negotiating with the local governments and the private companies to distribute the huge amount of the Kuwaiti generous donation directly, effectively, and equally among the affected population’. The use of 5 million crude oils and petroleum products, the donation from Kuwait as the directives of H.H. the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, has been consulted between the Japanese government and related institutions. ‘I trust Japanese Red Cross Society, the institution itself and its activities,’ H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi said. There is some controversy over the role of Japanese Red Cross Society for delaying the aid distributions. ‘The Kuwait government and its people deeply consider the needs of the people, who still have suffered from the scale of the March 11. And we just hope that our donations will reach the people in need as soon as possible by any means,’ he added. H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi visited Kesennuma City, Miyagi Prefecture, one of the most affected areas by the March 11, to bring the relief goods in April 2011 and saw the real life and situation. With this experience, he expressed his greatest sympathy to the Japanese people in the affected areas, and especially the people in Fukushima Prefecture, in which has been affected by the nuclear problems. ‘I sincerely hope that the small donation from the Embassy will help the projects of Japanese Red Cross Society’, he said. Since the March 11, Japanese Red Cross Society has been sending medical teams, psychosocial support teams to the afflicted areas, as well as undertaking projects to improve the living conditions in the temporary homes, providing special cares for the elderly people and other vulnerable groups.

7/20/2011
The Kuwaiti Embassy held ‘Kuwait Forum’

The Kuwaiti embassy held a symposium titled ‘Kuwait Forum’ at the Embassy in Tokyo, in the co-organization of Mr. Koh Aoki, Representative of NPO Active Middle International Association. Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdul Rahman Al-Otaibi gave a lecture regarding the State of Kuwait to the audiences from various professions and occupations of Japanese people. The lecture of consists of the Kuwaiti history and the general information covering its economy and social structures, as well as the bilateral friendly relation between Japan and Kuwait. On his lecture, H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi appealed to the audiences that ‘In 2011, a special relation took place between Kuwait and Japan’ referring to the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic ties between the two countries. ‘And this year, the solidarity between Japan and Kuwait became stronger especially after the March 11 Earthquake and Tsunami in the north east Japan. Kuwaiti people, at all levels, got up in order to help Japan as much as we can’, he emphasized. The state of Kuwait, under the instructions of H.H. the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahamd Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, announced the donation of five million barrels of oil to Japan. H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi also explained that Japan was of a great support to the Kuwaiti sovereignty during the Gulf Crisis and participated into the International Coalition for the liberation from Iraq in 1991. The audiences were very keen on enriching their understanding about Kuwait by having a discussion with H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi and Mr. Saad Almehaini, First Secretary, during the dinner time with the Kuwaiti authentic foods. The audience also enjoyed the Arabic Oriental music, played by the professional Japanese musicians.

7/19/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Matsuzawa, FEC

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi received the courtesy call from H.E. Mr. Ken Matsuzawa, President of the International Friendship Exchange Council (FEC) cum the Advisor and Former Chairman of Nippon Koa Insurance, Co., Ltd. As an honorable member of EFC, H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi greeted the President H.E. Mr. Matsuzawa, as well as Mr. Hiroyuki Yushita, Managing Director, Mr. Takatoshi Maeda, Secretary General, and Mr. Sotaro Ishikawa, Counsellor. H.E. Mr. Matsuzawa showed his gratitude H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi and the State of Kuwait for the donation of 5 million crude oil and the great sympathy to Japan and its people, who became the victims of the March 11 Earthquake and Tsunami. H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi responded that it was the duty of the State of Kuwait, and the Embassy has been always open to help and support Japan and its people after the March 11. After the meeting, H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi had an interview by Mr. Ishikawa, Former professor of Nagaoka University, regarding the Embassy’s reactions towards the March 11 and the bilateral relation between Japan and Kuwait. EFC, as a non-profit organization, promotes exchanges with foreign countries and conveys people’s voices on Japan’s diplomacy to the Government people through the various activities.

7/12/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi hosts a dinner in honor of H.E. Sheikh Ahmad, the President of OCA

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi hosted a welcome reception in honor of H.E. Sheikh Ahmad Fahad Al-Sabah, the President of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), H.E. Sheikh Isa Al-Khalifa, Vice President of West Asia of OCA, H.E. Sheikh Talal Fahad Al-Sabah, Rule Committee Chairman of OCA, and the council members as well as the accompanied delegation members. Addressing attendees at the dinner, H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi delivered the opening speech by expressing his sincere congratulation to the Japanese Olympic Committee (JOC) and Japan Sports Association (JASA) for the 100th Anniversary of Establishment and also his appreciation to organize the official visit of H.E. Sheikh Ahmad to Japan this time of the year. H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi emphasized the fact that this visit and occasion is a significant gesture to show the supports towards Japanese friends after the March 11 Earthquake and Tsunami, which hit Japan drastically. H.E. Sheikh Ahmad, as the head of the OCA, has made great efforts and paid considerable respect to all kinds of sports and different levels, regionally and internationally. In his long and successful career history on this field. H.E. Sheikh Ahmad has learned great spirits and precious wisdoms from the school of the late martyrs Sheikh Fahad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, God’s has mercy on him, who put Asian Sports in the legitimate position in the world. ‘I am so sure that H.E. Sheikh Ahmed has carried the responsibilities from his father and also achieved the Asian Sports inspiration at the world level’, H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi said. H.E. Mr. Tsunekazu Takeda, the President of the JOC proposed a toast and congratulated for the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic relations between Japan and Kuwait. H.E. Sheikh Ahmad has visited Japan several times before and this time of visit came in light with the celebration of 50th anniversary. The dinner reception was attended by Arab Ambassadors and Chargé d’affaires of the Arab Missions in Japan, Mr. Kenshiro Matsunami (President of Nihon Taiikukai), Mr. Ryosho Tanigama (President of Nippon Sport and Science University), Mr. Waleed Al-Abdulijalil (Head of office, Kuwait Petroleum Corporation) and honorable guests.

7/11/2011
Kuwait Embassy donates to Japan Foundation

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi donated 500,000 Japanese Yen to the Japan Foundation (Nippon Foundation) for the sake of helping Japanese people who have suffered from the March 11 Earthquake and Tsunami. Kuwaiti Ambassador H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi received the proposal letter from H.E. Mr. Yohei Sasakawa, the Chairman of the Japan Foundation, that the Foundation requires Embassy’s cooperation and assistance to undertake necessary measures to ensure the expeditious implementation of the projects for the recovery and reconstruction from the outcomes of March 11. H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi welcomed the proposal and decided to support the Foundation with a check of 500,000 Japanese Yen, a part of the proceeds from the Charity Bazaar, which was organized by the Embassy of the State of Kuwait Japan on May 14th, 2011 at the Embassy in Tokyo. Chairman H.E. Mr. Sasakawa expressed his gratitude to H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi for his acceptance of the proposal and his generosity to the Japanese people and its community. He highlighted that as the Kuwaiti government decided to donate 5 million barrels of crude oil and to Japan upon directives of H.H. the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Japanese government must make the Kuwaiti donation as visible not only to remember but also to show the Kuwaiti people how the Japanese people appreciated and benefited tremendously from them. "We were touched by the solidarity extended by the government and the people of Kuwait," H.E. Mr. Sasakawa said. "I appreciate the activities of the Foundation and I sincerely hope that this small amount donation from us will help the projects of the Japan Foundation as well as the needs for suffering people.
The people still have suffered from the scale of the March 11," H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi expressed his sympathy and pledged the chairman Kuwait's fullest support. H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi also told H.E. Mr. Sasakawa, "On behalf of the people and the government of Kuwait, I extend my heartfelt condolences to those bereaved as well as my sincere sympathy to all affected by this catastrophe and to their families and friends. And please remember that our hearts are with you, and your friends in Kuwait and all over the world stand by you, as our Japanese friends helped the Kuwaiti people during the Gulf crisis. And this year, Kuwait and Japan celebrates its 50th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic relations, therefore, we are proud of supporting our friends." The Japan Foundation, a non-profit philanthropic organization, has a sister organization called the Sasakawa Middle East Islam Fund (SMEIF), as part of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, aims to contribute actively as a private foundation to establishing peace in the Middle East and to present the face of Japan in this region.

6/23/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi received graduate students from Sophia University

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi welcomed graduate students from Sophia University, Mr. Adil Driouech (Leader), Mr. Loic Sar, and Miss. Kostina Ekaterina. H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi had the interview from the student group, regarding the responses of the Kuwaiti Diplomatic Corps toward the 3.11 East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami, and the nuclear problems. H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi and the student group had a discussion and exchanged their views of the event and future of Japan. The student group intends to make the documentary about the event and the reactions of the Diplomatic Corps in Japan for the study group at Sophia University.

6/23/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi and Madam Jamila hosted a farewell dinner in honor of H.E. Dr. Walid Mahmoud Abdelnasser, Ambassador of Arab Republic of Egypt, and Madam Mrs. Dahlia Abdelnasser

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi hosted the farewell dinner in honor of H.E. Dr. Walid Mahmoud Abdelnasser, Ambassador of Arab Republic of Egypt, and Madam Mrs. Dahlia Abdelnasser. Addressing attendees at the dinner, H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi delivered the opening speech by expressing his special gratitude for H.E. Dr. Abdelnasser for his kind support to strengthen friendly relations not only between Kuwait and Egypt, but also among the Arab nations, and presented a heartfelt Kuwaiti gift. In return, H.E. Dr. Abdelnasser expressed his appreciation to H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi for this special occasion.

Guests at the dinner:
-Guest of honor, H.E. Dr. Walid Mahmoud Abdelnasser (Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt) and Madam Dahlia
-H.E. Mr. Waleed Siam (Ambassador of The Permanent General Mission of Palestine)
-H.E. Mr. Saeed Al-Nowais (Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates) and Madam Zahra
-H.E. Dr. Khalil Hassan (Ambassador of the Kingdom of Bahrain)
-H.E. Mr. Sid Ketrandji (Ambassador of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria) and Madam Amal
-H.E. Mr. Khalid Al-Muslahi (Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman) and Madam Aisha
-H.E. Mr. Ahmed Araïta Ali (Ambassador of the Republic of Djibouti)
-H.E. Mr. Mohamad El-Harake (Ambassador of the Republic of Lebanon)
-H.E. Mr. Demiye Haddad (Ambassador of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan)
-H.E. Mr. Yousef Bilal (Ambassador of the State of Qatar) and Madam Jamila
-H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Habash (Ambassador of the Syrian Arab Republic) and Madam Samar

6/11/2011
SWAJJ Charity Bazaar 2011

Mrs. Jamilah Al-Otaibi, Wife of the Kuwaiti Ambassador and the Embassy of the State of Kuwait to participate in “Arab Charity Bazaar Japan Disaster Relief” at the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman
The Embassy of the State of Kuwait participated in “Arab Charity Bazaar Japan Disaster Relief” organized by The Society of Wives of Arab Ambassadors and Heads of Missions in Japan at the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman on June 11, Saturday. This Charity Event was particularly held to assist raise funds for the relief of the East Japan Earthquake which has occurred in March 11th.
Headed by Mrs. Jamilah Al-Otaibi, wife of the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait, delicious home-made Kuwaiti dishes and sweets, as well as various handicrafts were sold at food and handicraft corners. Among the distinguished guests of honor, Her Royal Highness Princess Takamado, wife of current Prime of Japan H.E. Mr. Naoto Kan, and wife of current Foreign Minister H.E. Mr. Takeaki Matsumoto, all came to the Kuwaiti handicraft booth, and enjoy the pleasant conversation of Mrs. Jamilah Al-Otaibi.
In addition to sales of food and handicraft, various corners to experience Arabic culture were also present, such as Arabic Calligraphy and Henna painting, as well as the Raffle corner, which offered the thrill of winning fabulous and interesting gifts. The Bazaar proved to be a huge success with a tremendous amount of people attending the event, and contributing to assistance and cooperation for disaster relief.

The 12th Kuwait –Japan Joint Symposium

JCCP and Kuwait Institute of Scientific Research (KISR) sponsored the 12th Kuwait–Japan Joint Symposium on “Innovations in oil refining processes” on January 18 and 19, 2011. The symposium is held annually in Kuwait on themes alternating between the process catalyst field (heavy oil processing, desulfurization, new fuels) and the refinery equipment maintenance field (corrosion, inspection, materials). Implemented on commission by the Japan Petroleum Institute (JPI), this year’s symposium featured presentations by five Japanese lecturers.
The symposium opened with words of greeting from Mr. Asaad A. Al-Saad, Deputy Managing Director, Mina Al-Ahmadi Refinery, Kuwait National Petroleum Company (KNPC), and Dr. Naji Al-Mutairi, Director General of KISR, on the Kuwait side; from H.E. Mr. Yasuyoshi Komizo, Japanese Ambassador to Kuwait and Dr. Takahashi Tatsumi, Professor at the Tokyo Institute of Technology and leader of Japanese speakers, on the Japanese side.
Ambassador Komizo noted that this year marks the 50th year of diplomatic relations between Japan and Kuwait, and among the various commemorative events being planned by Japan, he said that this symposium holds significant meaning as the first of such events. The Ambassador also recognized the remarkable growth of KISR, which initially started out as a research institute under the Japanese company, Arabian Oil Company, Ltd., and has since expanded and developed into the comprehensive institute that it is today. He also expressed his hope that KIRS will continue to engage in technical cooperation with Japan and achieve even greater development.
The symposium featured a total of 15 speeches and presentations. The Japanese side gave on keynote speech and five presentations, which included presentations by members of JCCP technical cooperation projects in Kuwait, and the Kuwaiti side gave two keynote speeches and seven presentations. Approximately 60 people attended symposium, including 40 from the Kuwaiti oil industry.
JCCP hopes that the symposium will continue to contribute to prompting technical exchanges between Japan and Kuwait. The names and presentation themes of the Japanese researchers are as follow.
1) Dr. Takahashi Tatsumi, Chemical Resources Laboratory, Tokyo Institute of Technology Presentation theme: Improvement of ZSM-5 catalyst for cracking of naphtha.
2) Dr. Sachio Asaoka, Faculty of Enviromental Engineering, The University of Kitakyushu Presentation theme: Selective conversion of n-paraffins to gasoline fraction on metal/nano-sized xide/zeolite hybrid catalyst
3) Dr. Miki Niwa, Faculty of Engineering, Tottori University
Presentation theme: Characterization and catalytic cracking activity of USY zeolite
4) Dr. Takao Masuda, Graduate School of Engineering, Hokkaido University
Presentation theme: Selective production of intermediate species of reaction in series using catalytic zeolite membrane as contactor
5) Mr. Yoji Sunagawa, Chief Researcher, Advanced Technology Research Laboratories, Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd.
Presentation theme: Development of zeolite hydrocracking catalyst and system for residhydrodesulfurization unit

5/14/2011
Kuwaiti embassy in Tokyo sees success in charity bazaar for quake victims

The Kuwaiti Embassy in Tokyo achieved on Saturday a great success in a charity bazaar aimed at raising funds for the March 11 disaster victims in Japan, with a large number of visitors attending the one-day event. The proceeds from the humanitarian charity will be donated to the disaster-affected areas through the Japanese Red Cross Society, according to Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi. The stands set up in the embassy were thronged with people buying a variety of high quality Kuwaiti products such as traditional costumes, artifacts, food, sweets and coffee. A line-up of activities also included Arabic calligraphy, a photo shoot in Kuwaiti costumes and henna art for visitors, as well as Arab music concert and a raffle. Kuwait is the only Arab country whose embassy hosts a charity bazaar in Japan for the victims from the disaster on March 11. In her speech at the opening ceremony, Former Defense Minister Yuriko Koike, who is serving for the Japanese Red Cross Society, praised the Kuwaiti embassy for organizing the event. "On behalf of the people and the government of Japan, I would like to thank H.H. the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and Ambassador Al-Otaibi for expressing deep sympathy to our country, especially for victims in the devastating areas. Kuwait has responded promptly and sincerely to our crisis soon after the disaster." She also commended Kuwait's decision to donate 5 million barrels of crude oil to Japan, which is equivalent to some USD 550 million. "We will remember deep friendship and kindness shown by Kuwait for centuries." Vice Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Yoshikatsu Nakayama said he was touched by the solidarity extended by the government and the people of Kuwait through generous donations and the charity bazaar. He also praised Al-Otaibi's visit last month to the disaster-hit northeastern region to offer survivors specially-designed soccer balls, school supplies, food and living necessities. "It gave the people great relief, encouragement and hope, especially for children," Nakayama said. The magnitude-9.0 earthquake and tsunami killed nearly 26,000 people in northeastern and eastern Japan. For his part, the ambassador reiterated Kuwait's keenness to help Japan's reconstruction efforts, saying, "We are trying to maximally eliminate pain from all the people affected by the disaster. I am confident that Japan will recover from this catastrophe and rebuild the nation even stronger than ever. I also thank Kuwaiti diplomats and all embassy staff for their efforts to ensure the safety of Kuwaiti citizens here after the disaster and working hard for this event." Al-Otaibi also expressed his gratitude to the Kuwaiti government for allowing his embassy to continue its work in Japan and supporting the charity event by providing the needed. .... a Japanese woman in her 30's who lives nearby the embassy said, "I've just dropped in after seeing a banner outside. Having a charity bazaar is a wonderful way to lend assistance to victims. I was impressed with the active role of Kuwaiti embassy in supporting our country at a time many other embassies in Tokyo have shut down and evacuated diplomats after an accident at the Fukushima nuclear power plant." Another Japanese resident, who came with his wife and two children, said, "It is our first time to enter the embassy. This bazaar does not only contribute to relief efforts in the disaster-hit areas, but also helps bring Kuwaiti and Japanese cultures closer." Meanwhile, Egyptian Ambassador to Japan Dr. Walid Abdelnasser praised the Kuwaiti ambassador and his wife, Jamila Al-Otaibi for taking an initiative to raise donations for victims. "This shows how Kuwait and Arab countries are appreciating and respecting Japan, and it will be reflected positively." Pakistani Ambassador to Japan Noor Muhammad Jadmani said the event is not only for raising money toward relief efforts, but also becomes a good opportunity to express solidarity of Kuwait and international community with Japan. "Japan has helped Pakistan and other countries during disasters, and now it is our turn to support Japan in its difficult times," Jadmani said.

5/11/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Seki, President of ITEC

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi received the courtesy call from H.E. Mr. Takao Seki, President of ITEC (International Total Engineering Corporation).
Their Excellencies exchanged their views on means of improving healthcare systems including health education and hospital management, and agreed on committing themselves to cooperate in order to maximize the existing friendly relationship between the two countries

4/30/2011
Japan tsunami-hit children receive Kuwait''s symbolic soccer balls, supplies

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi and First Secretary Mohammad Al-Mutairi visited Kesennuma City in northeastern Japan over the weekend to show Kuwait's solidarity with survivors from the March 11 disaster.
The top diplomat delivered soccer balls, school supplies, food and living necessities on behalf of the government and the people of Kuwait. With two countries' national flags painted, specially-designed 240 soccer balls were chosen to give children here a hopeful future in the aftermath of the catastrophe. Al-Otaibi's visit to the coastal city of Kesennuma, which took more than six hours from Tokyo, was accompanied by the First Secretary Mohammad Al-Mutairi, renowned former Japanese national team football player Tsuyoshi Kitazawa and a Foreign Ministry official. The badly-hit Kesennuma City in Miyagi Prefecture, 390 km north of Tokyo, had a population of 74,000 as of the end of February, of whom about 2,000 are listed as dead or missing from a magnitude 9.0-earthquake and an ensuing tsunami. Up to 5,700 survivors are still living in emergency shelters as they lost homes and loved ones.
During his talks with the ambassador, city mayor Shigeru Sugawara expressed his gratitude to Al-Otaibi for his visit and conveyed appreciation to Kuwait for offering symbolic soccer balls and other gifts to suffering local residents, especially children. "We were touched by the solidarity extended by the government and the people of Kuwait," Sugawara said. "Giving soccer balls is a great idea. I believe they will make children unite and remember Kuwaiti friends," he added. According to Sugawara, the waves of the tsunami reached up to the second floor of Minami Kesennuma Elementary School building. "All students in the building managed to flee to the higher floor, but houses of most of the children were destroyed or damaged. As a new academic year has just started, many students moved to other cities to continue studies, and those who left behind feel lonely." Eight children became orphans and about 80 others lost a parent in Kesennuma, a city official said, adding that all the eight orphans were taken care of by their relatives.
The mayor also briefed the diplomat on the destruction in Kesennuma. A massive tsunami submerged 18-square km of land and bursting of all the 23 seaside oil storage tanks made an extensive area into "a sea of fire." He also explained how his government is supporting the recovery process of the city, which is well known for its industries. "Our priority is to revive this once beautiful city. The reconstruction plan is underway and I hope Kuwait will share its experience with us," the mayor told Al-Otaibi. Meanwhile, Sugawara said Kuwaiti citizen Abdullah Mudhafar is the most famous foreigner in Kesennuma, showing his amazement with Mudhafar's commitment to child education and volunteer activities here.
"Local people already have a feeling of closeness towards Kuwait, and your visit today and delivery of gifts to schools and shelters will further deepen our bond," the mayor said. The Kuwaiti government evacuated Mudhafar and his family in March after his house was smashed by the disaster.
For his part, Al-Otaibi told Sugawara, "On behalf of the people and the government of Kuwait, I extend my heartfelt condolences to those bereaved as well as my sincere sympathy to all affected by this catastrophe and to their families and friends." The ambassador also highlighted Kuwait's decision to donate 5 million barrels of crude oil to Japan upon directives of H.H. the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, in which the mayor showed appreciation. The donation, equivalent to some USD 550 million, surpasses Japan's daily consumption of 4.4 million barrels. "The scale of the destruction was breathtaking, but I am convinced that your city and Japan will bounce back from this tragedy. Small gifts we brought today are just the first step. Please let us know what are needed for suffering people," Al-Otaibi pledged the mayor Kuwait's fullest support.
Prior to the talks with the mayor, the ambassador paid visits to Minami Kesennuma Elementary School, Kesennuma Junior High School and two evacuation centers. He also met city's Superintendent of Education Board Katsumi Shirahata and expressed sympathy for the plight of local residents. In a classroom at Minami Kesennuma Elementary School, 25 children in the sixth grade were excited to see the ambassador and to receive soccer balls, notebooks, school bags and other items bearing the two countries' names. Warmly encouraging children, the ambassador said, "Please remember that our hearts are with you, and your friends in Kuwait and all over the world stand by you. I believe all of you will contribute to the reconstruction of Kesennuma in the future." The students, most of them had their houses severely damaged, were also delighted by the presence of star player Kitazawa and broke out cheering when he demonstrated football skills. Carrying a photo of her late friend Moe Suzuki in her hands, 11-year-old Miyu Watanabe said :-, "Suzuki perished in the tsunami on March 11. She was very active, and I'm sure she would share this joy with us if she were here." At the makeshift shelters, Al-Otaibi consoled survivors and offered food and daily necessities, and in return, they expressed appreciation to the ambassador, saying they were touched by the gifts from Kuwait.
Touring residential areas along the tsunami-ravaged coastline, where countless houses, buildings, ships and cars were destroyed, the ambassador expressed shock at the level of devastation. "It was a scene of incredible tragedy, even I have seen the images on TV so often. But with their strength and dignified spirit, I believe the Japanese people will rebuild the nation and will be stronger than ever," he told KUNA at the end of the visit. "I hope our visit and delivery of gifts from Kuwait brought joy to children and encouraged survivors in this time of hardship," he added.
The twin natural disaster left nearly 28,000 people dead or missing in northeastern and eastern Japan.

4/28/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets with H.E. Mr. Kaieda and H.E. Mr. Nakayama, Minister and Vice Minister of METI, respectively

H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets with H.E. Mr. Kaieda and H.E. Mr. Nakayama, Minister and Vice Minister of METI, respectively H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi held meetings with H.E. Mr. Banri Kaieda, Minister for Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) and
H.E. Mr. Yoshikatsu Nakayama, Vice Minister of METI, respectively. Mr. Waleed Abduljalil, the head of KPC Tokyo Office and Mr. Mohammad Al-Mutairi, Deputy Head of Mission cum First Secretary also attended. H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi, on behalf of H.H. the Amir, the State of Kuwait, and its people, showed sincerest condolence to Japan and its people especially in the afflicted area, and handed over the official letter to H.E. Mr. Kaieda from H.E. Ahamad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Minister of Oil and Minister of Information, Chairman of Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC), on which the Kuwaiti donation of 5 million barrels of petroleum products and crude oil (equivalent to 42 billion JPY). In response, H.E. Mr. Kaieda expressed deepest gratitude to the State of Kuwait and its people and explained the current situation of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear reactors and of the afflicted areas. H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi also held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Nakayama, Vice Minister of METI and their Excellencies agreed on further cooperation to develop the friendship between the two countries, as well as to support Japan to overcome this tragic situation.

4/21/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets with H.E. Ms. Nishimura, General Director of Int’l Dept. of DPJ

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi paid a courtesy call on H.E. Ms. Chinami Nishimura, Director General of International Department, the Democratic Party of Japan. Their Excellencies discussed the current unprecedented disaster of the Great East Japan Earthquake of which Japan has been suffering from. H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi, on behalf of the State of Kuwait and its people, showed sincerest condolence to Japan and its people especially in the afflicted area. In response, H.E. Ms. Nishimura expressed great gratitude for the Kuwaiti donation of crude oil to Japan. H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi also mentioned that the Kuwait Embassy in Japan is willing to organize some activities on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between Japan and Kuwait, which have been postponed due to the current situation. In response, H.E. Ms. Nishimura agreed on this movement and showed her intention to cooperate with the Embassy to promote the activities in order to further develop the friendship between the two countries, as well as to encourage people to overcome this tragic situation. The State of Kuwait announced on 16th April that the government had decided to provide 5 million barrels of petroleum products or crude oil (equivalent to 42 billion JPY) to Japan as a donation to show the solidarity.

3/1/2011
Kuwait Embassy in Tokyo Celebrates National Occasions

The Kuwait Embassy in Japan held a grand reception on Monday evening to mark Kuwait's 50th anniversary of Independence Day, 20th Liberation Day and the 5th anniversary of His Highness the Amir's assumption of power. Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi and his wife Jamilah Al-Otaibi, Kuwaiti diplomats, Kuwait Petroleum Corporation's Tokyo Office Representative Tokyo Office Waleed Al-Abduljaleel and Kuwaiti students in Japan celebrated the event.
More than 1,000 guests, including high-ranking officials, parliamentarians, businesspersons, academics, diplomats and prominent media figures attended the celebration at Tokyo's Imperial Hotel. Among guests of honor were Vice Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Yoshikatsu Nakayama and Chairman of the Japan-Kuwait Society Kuniyasu Takeda. On the sidelines of the event, the embassy held a photo exhibition showing the history of the Kuwait-Japan relationship and screened Kuwait's achievements and development. Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi congratulated on this occasion His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah and the Kuwaiti people. In his speech at the outset of the reception, Al-Otaibi said, "We are very proud to host the event, and the great number of quality guests attending the celebration reflects the distinguished and deeply-rooted relations between Kuwait and Japan," he said. The ambassador briefed the guests on the progress made by Kuwait in the political, economic domains as well as its contributions to the international community via the Kuwaiti Fund for the Arabic Economic Development (KFAED) that has boosted its cooperation for development with 104 countries. He also thanked the guests for participating in the celebration and expressing warm feelings towards Kuwait in its national festivals.
"This is a good chance for Kuwaitis to review our great heritage and achievement and the great responsibility they face in building the country's future under the wise rule of our leaders," he said. Al-Otaibi recalled with gratitude to Japan's support of the 1991 liberation, "Kuwaitis will never forget your support during the Iraqi occupation in 1990 and your efforts in liberating us in 1991," he stressed. As this year's national celebrations coincides with commemoration of the golden jubilee of Kuwait-Japan diplomatic ties, the ambassador lauded the long-lasting bilateral relations which have witnessed a continuous growth in all domains, adding that his embassy is preparing a variety of commemorative events to promote mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples. On behalf of Japanese Foreign Minister Seiji Maehara and Parliamentary Vice Foreign Minister Makiko Kikuta, Director-General of the ministry's Middle Eastern and African Affairs Bureau Shigeo Matsutomi congratulated the Kuwaiti leadership and people on the occasion, wishing the country further development and prosperity. In his speech, Matsutomi also said that Kikuta, who attended Saturday's huge celebration in Kuwait, praised the stability, security and economic development of Kuwait at a time when the political unrest is escalating in some Middle Eastern countries. Kikuta visited Kuwait as Prime Minister Naoto Kan's Special Envoy and delivered a handwritten letter from Japanese Emperor Akihito addressed to HH the Amir, and another letter from Kan to HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser.
In an interview with KUNA, Vice Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Yoshikatsu Nakayama emphasized that Japan is keen on enhancing bilateral cooperation with Kuwait, not only in oil and energy sectors, but also in such fields as environment, water business, express railway system, investment, finance through "win-win strategy." Nakayama, who is also Chairman of the Japan-Kuwait Parliamentary Friendship Committee, underlined a landmark five-year cooperation deal with Kuwait in September for cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy covering issues such as expertise exchange, human resource development, nuclear safety. In addition, he expressed satisfaction with the launch of the Japan-Kuwait Joint Committee by the two governments in last June during the visit to Tokyo by Kuwaiti Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Sheikh Dr. Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah. At the first Japan-Kuwait Joint Committee that he convened, Sheikh Dr. Mohammad assured Kuwait's commitment to fostering stronger bilateral ties in such fields as economic, trade, energy and investment sectors. Japan is one of Kuwait's major trading partners, with two-way trade in 2010 stood at USD 12.5 billion. The country is also Kuwait's biggest oil buyer. The ceremony was also attended by Deputy Head of Mission Mohammad Al-Mutairi, First Secretary Saad Al-Mehaini .

2/18/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets with H.E. Mr. Nakayama, Vice President of METI

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi had a meeting with H.E. Mr. Yoshikatsu Nakayama, Vice President of the Ministry of Trade, Economy and Industry, and Chairman of the Japan-Kuwait Parliamentary Friendship Committee. Their Excellencies discussed the current situations of economic and industrial cooperation between Japan and Kuwait and exchanged their opinions about means for achieving further development of partnership. And their Excellencies agreed on committing themselves to maximize the benefits of the bilateral relations between the two countries.

2/15/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi hosts a dinner in honor of H.E. Mr. Akimoto, Chief of Protocol MOFA

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi and Madam Jamilah Al-Otaibi hosted the dinner in honor of H.E. Mr. Yoshitaka Akimoto, Chief of Protocol of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Madam Kumiko Akimoto. Addressing attendees at the dinner, H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi delivered the opening speech by expressing his gratitude for H.E. Mr. Akimoto to put great efforts into maintaining and expanding the existing friendly diplomatic relations between Japan and the Middle East countries. In response, H.E. Mr. Akimoto showed his appreciation to H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi for this occasion, and noted that it would be beneficial for all of us to make an attempt at expanding the bilateral relationships not only in the areas of politics and economy but also cultural, education, and environment and so forth.

Among the honor guests at the dinner were:
・ H. E. Mr. Waleed SIAM and Madam Maali ALMAGAYDA, the Permanent General Mission of Palestine
・ H. E. Mr. Khalid bin Hashil bin Mohammed AL-MUSLAHI and Madam Abeer A. AISHA, Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman
・ H. E. Dr. Samir ARROUR and Madam Utako ARROUR, Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco
・ H.E. Mr. Yousef Mohamed BILAL and Madam Jimila BILAL, Embassy of the State of Qatar
・ H. E. Mr. Seyed M. Amin FATIMIE and Madam Wahida FATIMIE, Embassy of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

2/9/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets with H.E. Mr. Koizumi, Parliamentary Secretary for Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi had a meeting with H.E. Mr. Toshiaki Koizumi, Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. Their Excellencies exchanged their opinions about ideal activities for the 50th anniversary of the diplomatic ties between Japan and Kuwait and the ways in which they could corporate together to make the events successful. And their Excellencies agreed on committing themselves to maximize the benefits of the bilateral relations between the two countries.

2/3/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi hosts a dinner in honor of H.E. Mr. Matsutomi, Director General of Middle Eastern and African Affairs Bureau, MOFA

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi hosted the dinner in honor of H.E. Mr. Shigeo Matsutomi, Director General of the Middle Eastern and African Affairs Bureau, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Japan. Addressing attendees at the dinner, H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi delivered the opening speech by expressing his gratitude for H.E. Mr. Matsutomi to make every effort toward maximizing the cooperation between Japan and the Middle East and the Islamic countries as a whole. In response, H.E. Mr. Matsutomi showed his appreciation to H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi for this occasion, and noted that the Japanese government and Ministry of Foreign Affairs are keen on, working hard, and making commitment to enhance the bilateral relations with each country in the Middle East, Africa, and the South Asia. And H.E. Mr. Matsutomi also emphasized the importance of making maximum efforts to deliver the successful events for the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Japan Kuwait diplomatic ties.

Among the honor guests at the dinner were:
H. E. Mr. Saeed Ali Al-Nowais, UAE Ambassador
H. E. Dr. Khalil bin Ibrahim Hassan, Bahrain Ambassador
H. E. Dr. Walid Mahmoud Hussein Abdelnasser, Egyptian Ambassador
H. E. Mr. Khalid bin Hashil bin Mohammed Al-Muslahi, Oman Ambassador
H. E. Mr. Ahmed Araita Ali, Djibouti Ambassador
H. E. Mr. Noor Muhammad Jamani, Pakistani Ambassador
H. E. Dr. Samir Arrour, Moroccan Ambassador
H. E. Dr. Abdul Aziz A Bin Almas Turkistani, Saudi Arabian Ambassador
H. E. Mr. Demiye Zuher Haddad, Jordanian Ambassador
H. E. Mr. Yousef Mohamed Bilal, Qatari Ambassador
H. E. Mr. Bouna Semou Diouf, Senegal Ambassador
Mr. Masanori YAGI, Senior Deputy Director of the Second Middle East Division of MOFA

1/27/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Komura, Member of the House of Representatives

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Masahiko Komura, Member of the House of Representatives, and Chairman of the LDP Japan Kuwait Parliamentary Friendship League. Their Excellencies exchanged their opinions about ideal activities for the 50th anniversary of the diplomatic ties between Japan and Kuwait and the ways in which they could corporate together to make the events successful. And their Excellencies agreed on committing themselves to maximize the benefits of the bilateral relations between the two countries.

1/26/2011
Kuwaiti embassy mark national festivals

In Tokyo, the Kuwaiti embassy shared the national festivals by holding a reception for a number of Japanese journalists and media figures. Addressing the ceremony, Kuwaiti Ambassador in Japan H. E. Mr. Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi, the Kuwaiti flag was hoisted over the embassy as part of the country's national celebrations. He elaborated on Kuwait's key historical watersheds since the country's independence. In this context, he pointed to the constitutional legitimacy phase in 1962, which established the democratic approach adopted by the Kuwaiti leadership since the national independence.

1/21/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. FATIMIE, Ambassador of Afghanistan

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi received the courtesy call from H.E. Mr. Sayed Mohammad Amin FATIMIE, Ambassador of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Japan. Their Excellencies agreed on committing themselves to cooperate in order to maximize the existing friendly relationship between the two countries

1/20/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. OGURA, President of the Japan Foundation

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Kazuo OGURA, President of the Japan Foundation. Their Excellencies discussed about the various ways of cultural exchanges between Japan and Kuwait, as well as the Middle East countries, and they reaffirmed the importance of the comprehensive cultural understandings and awareness of the different cultures in order to further develop the friendly relations between Japan and Kuwait in the global era.

1/20/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Ukelli, Ambassador of Kosovo

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi received the courtesy call from H.E. Mr. Sami UKELLI, Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo in Japan. Their Excellencies agreed on committing themselves to cooperate in order to maximize the existing friendly relationship between the two countries

1/11/2011
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi appears in Tokyo FM Radio ‘Synapse’

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi appeared in Tokyo FM Radio Live Program ‘Synapse: Naruhodo the Sekai-Koryu Year! Special!’ as a special guest. With a well-known Japanese Radio DJ. Mr. Hisashi Yamada, H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi discussed about the friendly relationship between Japan and Kuwait as the two countries celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2011. H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi also introduced Kuwaiti history and culture, and delivered welcome messages to Japanese listeners to join the commemorative events, such as the Kuwaiti Cultural Week, to experience and enjoy the Kuwaiti culture.

11/29/2010
Mrs. Jamilah Al-Otaibi to receive interview by Japan Bread and Cake Newspaper Co., Ltd., at the Residence

Mrs. Jamilah Al-Otaibi, wife of Ambassador of the State of Kuwait, received interview from the President and editorial staff of Japan Bread and Cake Newspaper Co., Ltd., at the residence of the Ambassador. Mrs. Jamilah introduced all ingredients and steps to cook two traditional Kuwaiti cuisine, “Khoub Orog”, simple Kuwaiti bread, and “Merbian”, traditional Kuwaiti dish consisting of onions, shrimp and rice. After cooking those two dishes, Mrs. Jamilah invited President Mr. Sugata and correspondent Ms. Watanabe to sit and eat together, and answered questions from their interview. The interview was centered on explanation of Kuwaiti cuisine and cooking, way of life, customs and traditions, the ordinary life as wife of Ambassador and explanation about foods cooked for official parties and receptions at the Residence. The interview is expected to be published in the New Year edition of January of the newspaper.

11/29/2010
Kuwait, Japan conclude bilateral investment deal -- diplomat

Kuwaiti Charg{ d'affaires to Japan Mohammed Al-Mutairi has hosted a reception in honor of Kuwait's delegation who visited here to conclude a bilateral investment agreement between the two countries.
At their third round of negotiations that was held Nov.24-26, in a friendly and constructive atmosphere, the two sides reached an agreement for the Convention on the Promotion and Protection of Investments.
"If ratified by the relevant authorities in both countries, the agreement will open up prospects for the flow of investments between Kuwait and Japan," the Charg{ d'affaires said, pointing out that it will also strengthen their solid relations in all areas in the coming period, especially with the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties next year.
The deal needs to be ratified by authorities of the both countries to come into force. Al-Mutairi said the draft will be presented to legislative bodies and technical committees of the two countries for final approval as soon as possible.
Al-Mutairi expressed appreciation for the efforts exerted by the Kuwaiti delegation headed by Dr. Wesam Al-Othman, Assistant Secretary of the Finance Ministry's Tax Liability Department in the negotiations, saying, "They have made a great effort in dealing with the Japanese negotiators, who are known for sophistication and expertise in the field of negotiation." For their part, the delegation expressed their gratitude to Al-Mutairi and his efforts to the success of their visit to Japan.

11/4/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets Mr. Tanikawa, Senior Editor of Foreign News, Fuji TV Network

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi received a courtesy call from Mr. Hideo Tanikawa, Senior Editor of Foreign News, Fuji Television Network. They exchanged their views on the media in Japan and Kuwait and agreed that they will further cooperate to deepen mutual understanding between the two countries.

10/29/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi attends MOP5/COP10

H.E. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan with the Kuwaiti delegation attended ‘The 5th meeting of the Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety (COP-MOP5)’ held from 11-15 October 2011 in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture. Kuwait, as an observer-state, has participated actively in the plenary events of the conference and its technical and specialized working groups and side-events, affirming the importance of Bio-diversity as an essential component of a harmonious and sustainable life on earth. Approximately 1600 participants representing parties to the Protocol and other governments, UN agencies, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, academia and industry attended the meeting. During the meeting, the Nagoya-Kuala Lumpur Supplementary Protocol on Liability and Redress to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety (the Supplementary Protocol) was adopted and 16 other decisions were hailed as an important success against the background of complex and often protracted negotiations.
Besides, from 18-29 October 2010, H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi also represented the State of Kuwait at ‘The 10th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP10)’ which took place in Nagoya as well. H.E., along with Heads of State and Ministers representing 193 state-members in the Conference on Bio-Diversity and over 7,000 delegates representing parties and other governments, UN agencies, intergovernmental, non-governmental, indigenous and local community (ILC) representatives, academia and industry attended the meeting.

CBD COP 10 considered a series of strategic, substantive, administrative and budgetary issues, and adopted 47 decisions. And following late-night sessions, the Nagoya Protocol on ‘Access to genetic resources and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising out of their utilization (ABS)’ was adopted along with the CBD Strategic Plan for the period 2011-2020, making COP 10 one of the most successful meetings in the history of the Convention.

H.E. the Ambassador addressed the High-Level of the COP 10 by stressing the endeavors of the State of Kuwait toward achieving the goals of the international bio-diversity strategy through biodiversity conservation programs within the government's projects as of this year. Ambassador Al-Otaibi said that Kuwait appreciates the value of biodiversity and its resources as a complementary part of the inherited Kuwaiti values, therefore, it will make efforts on observing the components of biodiversity in various habitats alongside establishing a series of natural land and marine reserves, a program for observing the coral reefs and evaluating the status of artificial reefs as well as setting up a regional program for detecting harmful mosses. H.E also asserted that the Kuwaiti government is committed to implementing a lot of vital projects as part of its commitments to CBD as an international convention of which Kuwait has signed during the UN Earth Summit in 1992 in Rio de Janeiro.

10/26/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi hosts a dinner in honor of H.E. Ms. Koike, Chairperson, General Council of LDP

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi hosted the dinner in honor of H.E. Ms. Yuriko Koike, Chairperson, General Council of Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Addressing attendees at the dinner, H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi delivered the opening speech by expressing his gratitude for H.E. Ms. Koike to be the forefront in building the bilateral relation between Japan and Kuwait, and the Middle East region as a whole. In response, H.E. Ms. Koike showed her appreciation to H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi for this occasion and stated that the 50 years anniversary of the diplomatic ties between Kuwait and Japan in 2011 will strengthen the existing confidential relation between the two countries. Mr. Yasuyuki Nanbu, Group CEO cum President of Pasona Group Inc. made a toast by wishing for Japan and Kuwait as well as Arab countries to achieve great success, and expecting that H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi and H.E. Ms. Koike will be the central figures to maximize the friendly relations between Japan and the Middle East. H.E. Ms. Koike was appointed as Chairperson, General Council of LDP on September 2010, making her the first female member of the three top-ranking officials of LDP. H.E. Ms. Koike is also well-known as a prominent Arab specialist, graduated from Cairo University in Egypt.

Among the honor guests at the dinner were:
UAE Ambassador H. E. Mr. Saeed Ali Al-Nowais
Bahraini Ambassador H. E. Dr. Khalil Hassan
Egyptian Ambassador H. E. Mr. Dr. Walid Mahmoud Hussein Abdel Nasser
Lebanese Ambassador H. E. Mr. Mohamad El-Harake
Qatari Ambassador H. E. Mr. Yousef M. Balil
Mr. Yasuyuki Nanbu (Group CEO cum President of Pasona Group Inc.)
H. E. Mr. Toshimitsu Motegi (Member of the House of Representatives)
H. E. Mr. Yasuhisa Shiozaki (Member of the House of Representatives)
H. E. Mr. Masahiko Shibayama (Member of the House of Representatives)
H. E. Dr. Kuniko Inobuchi (Member of the House of Councillors)
H. E. Mr. Nobuo Kishi (Member of the House of Councillors)

10/25/2010
Ambassador Al-Otaibi welcomes Kuwaiti delegates to Japan’s training course Electricity & Water

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi hosted a reception in honor of a Kuwaiti delegation from the Ministry of Electricity and Water, who is visiting here to attend a two-week training course on "The transfer and distribution of electric power". In a speech at the reception held at the embassy, Al-Otaibi stressed the importance of maximizing benefit from the program that mirrors Japan's long experience in this field. The ambassador expressed his appreciation for the efforts exerted by the delegates to give a good image for the Kuwaitis to the Japanese people during the course, and encouraged them to take advantage of the program after returning to Kuwait. "This course comes in five other programs, provided in the Memorandum of Understanding reached in mid-June between the Kuwaiti Civil Service Commission and Japan International Cooperation Center on technical cooperation for the development of Kuwait's human resources," Al-Otaibi said, pointing out that the agreement came within the framework of implementation of the recommendations and the results of visit to Japan by Kuwaiti Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Sheikh Dr. Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah early June. "These programs are an important step toward strengthening and deepening cooperation in all fields between Kuwait and Japan, especially for the celebration of the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties next year," the ambassador emphasized. For their part, the delegation showed gratitude to the ambassador for his efforts in realizing their successful visit to Japan, noting that the program has greatly benefited themselves in learning the most important features of Japan's electric industry and everything related to plants and equipment, laboratories and centers of advanced research. "The course was also a good opportunity to get to know the latest findings from the Japanese technology in the field of energy saving," one of the delegates said. Under the June agreement, the two more training courses will be conducted by the end of this year for officials at the Ministry of Public Works as well as the Ministry of Electricity and Water, while the rest of the programs will be launched next year.

10/21/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Tanigaki, President of the LDP

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Sadalazu Tanigaki, President of Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and Mr. Yasufumi Tanahashi, Director-General, International Bureau of the LDP. At the outset, H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi informed H.E. Mr. Tanigaki about the recent developments of bilateral relation between Japan and Kuwait including the recently sealed agreements such as the avoidance of double taxation on February and the MOC for the peaceful use of nuclear power on September respectively in 2010. In response, H.E. Mr. Tanigaki showed his gratitude to hear the remarkable agreements between the two countries particularly the sealed tax agreement as he once served as Minister of Finance between 2003 and 2006. Their Excellencies also exchanged their views on the ways of further cooperation between the two countries and expressed their appreciation for having a meeting individually prior to a dinner on the same day hosted by H.E. Mr. Tanigaki, of which other Arab Ambassadors were amongst the guests. H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi also attended Yomiuri International Economic Society (YIES) of which H.E. Mr. Tanigaki was the guest speaker of ‘Strategies of LDP for Japan’s Tomorrow’ on October 25, 2010.

10/20/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Koizumi, Parliamentary Vice Minister, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Toshiaki Koizumi, Parliamentary Vice Minister, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. Their Excellencies exchanged their views on the ways of further cooperation between Japan and Kuwait particularly in the fields of environment and economy. They also agreed on committing themselves to realize the high ranking officials’ visits between Kuwait and Japan for the occasion of the 50 years anniversary of the diplomatic ties in 2011.

10/20/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets Prof. Yamada, Vice Chancellor of Tokai University

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi received a courtesy call from Prof. Kiyoshi Yamada, Vice Chancellor, and Mr. Tadashi Mitsuhashi, Assistant Director of Tokai University. H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi received the report from Prof. Yamada on the fruitful visit in Kuwait as a special envoy of the Tokai University on September 2010. And they agreed on pursuing further educational cooperation for the sake of the both countries’ future and next generations.

10/19/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets members of Kuwait Finance House

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi and Mr. Mohammad Al-Mutairi, First Secretary, received a courtesy call from Mr. Shaheed H. Al-Ghanem, Chairman, and Mr. Abdul Wahab Al-Rushood, Member of the Board, Kuwait Finance House (Malaysia), a leading Islamic Bank of the State of Kuwait. Their Excellencies exchanged their views on the Japanese / Global economic situations and business opportunities, as well as on the Islamic Banking Systems in a relation to the economic development in Asia.

10/14/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets members of Hitachi, Ltd.

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi and Mr. Mohammad Al-Mutairi, First Secretary, held a meeting with members of Hitachi, Ltd., headed by Mr. Masahide Tanigaki, Vice President and Executive Officer cum General Manager of Corporate Marketing Group. By receiving a presentation by Hitachi, Ltd., H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi acknowledged the fact that Hitachi is one of the top Japanese companies with a great reputation in the world, and said that it would be beneficial for Kuwait and Japan if the business corporation between Hitachi and Kuwaiti government and companies were realized in the near future.
In response, Mr. Tanigaki promised H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi to make an effort to pursue business plans in Kuwait.

10/12/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi hosts a dinner for newly appointed Ambassadors in Tokyo

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi and Madam Jamilah Al-Otaibi hosted the dinner in honor of the newly appointed Ambassadors in Tokyo. Addressing attendees at the dinner, H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi delivered the opening speech by wishing Their Excellencies’ future success and stated that in order for the Ambassadors from different countries to expand their own diplomatic missions to a greater extend in Japan, it would be beneficial for all Ambassadors to learn and exchange different ideas by close liaison with each other. Their Excellencies agreed on the H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi’s statement and hold a broad and productive exchange of views on a wide range of issues.

Among the honor guests at the dinner were:
・Greek Ambassador H. E. Mr. Nikolaos Tsamados and Madam Yasmine Lawand-Tsamados
・Syrian Ambassador H. E. Dr. Mohamed Ghassan Al-Habash and Madam Samara Al-Nabulsy
・Qatari Ambassador H. E. Mr. Yousef M. Bilal and Madam Jamila Al-Suwaidi
・Iraqi Ambassador H. E. Mr. Lukman Abduraheem Abdulkareem Faily and Madam Lameis Faily
・Sudanese Ambassador H. E. Mr. Abdun Tarkuk Mataweet Aheer
・Mauritanian Ambassador H. E. Mr. Yahya Ngam and Madam Aissata Bal

10/8/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi attends Commemorative Ceremony of the 1300th Anniversary of Nara Heijo-Kyo Capital

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi and Madam Jamilah Al-Otaibi visited Nara prefecture on the occasion of Commemorative Ceremony and Reception of the 1300th Anniversary of Nara Heijo-Kyo Capital. H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi attended the ceremony at Heijo Palace Site, the former Imperial Audience Hall, and the reception respectively.
And H.M Emperor Akihito and H.M Empress Michiko were among the honor guests along with approximately 1,700 guests including key government and business leaders of Japan and government representatives from 54 different countries.

10/5/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Matsutomi, Director-General of Middle Eastern and African Affairs Bureau, Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Shigeo Matsutomi, Director-General of Middle Eastern and African Affairs Bureau, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Their Excellencies exchanged their views on the ways of further cooperation between Japan and Kuwait for expanding the economic cooperation between not only Japan and Kuwait but also Japan and the GCC countries.
They also agreed on committing themselves to enhance their partnership to expand the bilateral cooperation between Japan and Kuwait.

10/5/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Akimoto, Chief of Protocol, Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Yoshitaka Akimoto, Chief of Protocol (Ambassador), Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan. Their Excellencies vowed to commit themselves to cooperate for making the successful activities for the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Kuwait Japan diplomatic ties in 2011, and to enhance their partnership to expand the bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

10/5/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi delivers a speech at the International Framework for Nuclear Energy Cooperation (IFNEC)

Kuwait Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi and Mr. Faraj Al-Hajeri, the Third Secretary, attended the 6th International Framework for Nuclear Energy Cooperation (IFNEC); Reliable Nuclear Fuels Services Working Group And Workshop on “Cradle to Grave” at Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) in Tokyo. On behalf of the Kuwait National Nuclear Energy Committee (KNNEC), H.E. Al-Otaibi proposed Kuwaiti full support for multiple and multilateral approaches to front and backend of the nuclear fuel cycle. Mr. Yves Kaluzny, Chairman of IFNEC, agreed on H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi’s proposal and showed the great anticipation of Kuwait’s partnership. Representatives of fourteen countries along with Mr. Yves, and Mr. Gary Dyck, Section Head of International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), attended the meeting and exchanged their views on Nuclear Fuel Services.
The IFNEC (former the Global Nuclear Energy Partnership) was established for the purpose of urging and developing international cooperation over nuclear fuel recycle system, and Kuwait has been attending the IFNEC meetings as an observer since 2008.

9/29/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Ms. Yuriko Koike, Chairperson of General Council, LDP

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi held a meeting with H.E. Ms. Yuriko Koike, Chairperson of General Council, LDP. H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi congratulated H.E. Ms. Koike for becoming the first female member of the three top-ranking officials of LDP. And Their Excellencies exchanged their views on the relation between Japan and Kuwait / the Middle East and agreed on committing themselves to enhance their cooperation to expand the bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

9/29/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Banri Kaieda, State Minister in charge of Economic and Fiscal Policy and Science and Technology Policy

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Banri Kaieda, newly appointed State Minister in charge of Economic and Fiscal Policy and Science and Technology Policy. Their Excellencies exchanged their views on the ways of further cooperation between Japan and Kuwait especially in the field of economy and science technology and agreed on committing themselves to enhance their partnership to expand the bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

9/28/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Takao Fujii, a member of the House of Councillors

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Takao Fujii, a member of the House of Councillors (Tachiagare Nippon), Secretary General of the LDP Japan-Kuwait Parliamentary Friendship League. Their Excellencies exchanged their views on the current Japanese political situation and agreed on committing themselves to enhance their cooperation in order to expand membership and activities of the LDP Japan-Kuwait Parliamentary Friendship League.

9/21/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi hosts a dinner for H.E. Mr. Komizo, the newly appointed Japanese Ambassador to the State of Kuwait

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi and Madam Jamilah Al-Otaibi hosted the dinner in honor of the newly appointed Japanese Ambassador to the State of Kuwait H.E. Mr Yasuyoshi Komizo and Mrs. Mieko Komizo.
H.E. Mr Komizo indicated that he will take over the results that have been achieved thus far by the predecessor, H.E. Mr Masatoshi Muto, and promised H.E. Mr Al-Otaibi that flourishing exchanges between Japan and Kuwait will be maximized.
Addressing attendees at the dinner, H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi noted that H.E. Mr. Komizo’s assignment is one of the crucial elements for a further strengthening
of the bilateral relations between Japan and Kuwait.
And H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi wished H.E. Mr. Komizo
for his success as the Japanese
Ambassador to the State of Kuwait.
H. E. Mr. Haruobu Yonegana, a member of the House of Councillors, stated his experience of visiting Kuwait as covering the 2003 Invasion of Iraq as a journalist of Japanese Fuji TV Company that he would very much like to contribute into any activities for deepening the friendly relations between the two countries H.E. Mr. Kozumi, the former Japanese Ambassador to Vienna International Organization, will be assumed his duties as Ambassador of Japan to the State of Kuwait the end of this month.

Among the guests at the dinner were:
• H. E. Mr. Saeed Ali Al-Nowais, Ambassador of UAE
• H. E. Mr. Sid Ali Ketrandji, Ambassador of Algeria
• H. E. Dr. Walid Mahmoud Hussein Abdelnasser, Ambassador of Egypt, and Madam Dahlia Abdelnasser
• H. E. Mr. Haruobu Yonegana, a member of the House of Councillors, and Mrs. Yukiko Yonenaga
• Mr. Takehiro Kagawa, Deputy Director-General of Economic Bureau of MOFA
• Mr. Nobuhisa Degawa, NHK Senior Commentator
• Ms. Eriko MURATA, Kuwait desk of Middle East Div. II of MOFA

9/16/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi received a courtesy call from exchange university students

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan, H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi and Mr. Faraj Al-Hajeri, Third Secretary in charge of Education including exchange students between Japan and Kuwait, received a courtesy call from five Japanese exchange students, who have completed the Arabic language program at Kuwait University from October 2009 to August 2010.

A group leader Mr. Takuya Murakami from Oberlin University expressed appreciation for H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi and Mr. Al-Hajeri by stating that due to the sound advice from Mr. Al-Hajeri and other Kuwaiti diplomats before the departure to Kuwait, they had fruitful results from studying and living in Kuwait. Addressing the students, H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi wished them for the future success in playing important roles as the bridge between Japan and Kuwait.

9/9/2010
Kuwait and Japan to seal the memorandum of cooperation (MOC)

Kuwaiti and Japan made an agreement on the peaceful use of nuclear energy for further cooperation. The memorandum of cooperation (MOC) was signed by Dr Ahmad Bishara, Secretary General of the Kuwait National Nuclear Energy Committee (KNNEC), and Mr. Katsuhiro Hosoi, Director General of Agency for Natural Resources and Energy, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of JAPAN, with the presence of H.E. Mr. Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi, the Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan, as well as H.E. Mr. Yasuyoshi Komizo, the newly appointed Japanese Ambassador to Kuwait.
The MOC, covering comprehensive agreements such as the exchanging expertise, human resource development and nuclear safety, provides a framework for Japan to contribute to Kuwait’s introduction of nuclear power generation.
H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi praised the deal for strengthening the existing friendly bilateral relationship between Japan and Kuwait as one of the kick off events for the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Kuwait Japan diplomatic ties in 2011. He also showed the deep appreciation for the valuable efforts from both sides as well as for Kuwaiti Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Sheikh Dr. Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah in realising the MOC.

9/6/2010
Ambassador Al-Otaibi hosts a dinner for delegation of the Kuwait National Nuclear Energy Committee

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi hosted a dinner at the Ambassador’s residence in honor of visiting the Kuwait National Nuclear Energy Committee (KNNEC). During the dinner, the ambassador welcomed the delegation members, Dr Ahmad Bishara (Secretary General of KNNEC), Dr. Adnan Shihab-Eldin (Advisor to KNNEC), Mr. Samir Salman Yacob Yousef (Ministry of Health, Assistant Undersecretary for Services), and Dr. Bassam Shuhaiber (KNNEC, Program Coordinator, Nuclear Power Plant Site Suitability Studies) and underscored their significant efforts to help deepen the cooperative relations between Kuwait and Japan. The diplomats of Embassy of the State of Kuwait Tokyo, Mr. Mohammed Al-Mutairi (First Secretary), Mr. Saad Almehaini (First Secretary), and Mr. Faraj Al-Hajeri (Third Secretary) were also present to welcome the delegation members.

9/03/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Motohiro OONO, a member of the House of Councillors

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi received the courtesy call from H.E. Mr. Motohiro OONO, a member of the House of Councillors (DPJ). Their Excellencies agreed on committing themselves to cooperate in order to maximize the existing friendly relationship between Japan and Kuwait.

8/31/2010
Ambassador Al-Otaibi hosts Iftar and lecture in the collaboration with Young Diplomats in Tokyo (YDT)

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi and Mr. Saad Almehaini, First Secretary at Kuwait Embassy and President of YDT hosted Iftar and lecture to the Diplomats in Tokyo from different regions. Iftar, the first meal after sunset to break the daily fast, is one of the Islamic observances of the holy month of Ramadan.
During the Iftar, Mr. Almehaini, President of YDT, showed his appreciation for H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi and the members of YDT by saying that this commemorative event was not accomplished without their concerted efforts. Mr. Almehaini also expressed special thanks to Dr. Musa Mohammad Omar, the guest lecturer, for completing the event.
Dr. Omar mentioned how delighted he was to be chosen as the lecturer and delivered the lecture of ‘Objectives of Ramadan’. After listening to the lecture, H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi concluded with deep feeling that he was very proud to hold the meaningful event with Dr. Omar and the members of YDT for familiarising the principles of Ramadan.

8/28/2010
Kuwait offers Japan investment openings

Kuwaiti Ambassador in Japan Abdel-Rahman Al-Oteibi urged Japanese companies to seek to seize mega trade and investment opportunities in Kuwait, which plans to inject fresh investments worth KD 30 billion (USD 103 billion).
Speaking at an international conference on energy, environment, communication and finance challenges, held in Tokyo on Friday, the Kuwaiti ambassador said major Japanese companies have unprecedented openings to join planned investment projects in Kuwait as part of the country's 2010-2014 development plan.
He noted that such mammoth Kuwaiti investments would not only include the oil sector, but would cover environment, nuclear energy, development of water resources, infrastructure, information systems, education and tourism as well.
Al-Eteibi hoped that Kuwaiti-Japanese cooperation could be an example for international cooperation in tackling common world challenges, particularly in the domains of peaceful nuclear use, environment, information and communication systems and financing.
The Kuwaiti ambassador stressed the significance of exchanging visits and meetings between Kuwaiti and Japanese businessmen and investors with a view to promoting each party's potential and capabilities. In this context, he maintained that while Japan has high technology, Kuwait enjoys great financial resources and high human skills.
Kuwait and Japan are set to mark the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations next year, he concluded.

8/18/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Yahya NGAM, Ambassador of Mauritania

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi received the courtesy call from H.E. Mr. Yahya NGAM, newly appointed Ambassador for Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania. Their Excellencies agreed on committing themselves to cooperate in order to maximize the existing friendly relationship between the two countries.

8/12/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Fumiaki WATARI, Chairman of the Board of Councilors, KEIDANREN

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, accompanied by the First Secretary Mr. Mohammad Al-Mutairi had a meeting with H.E. Mr. Fumiaki WATARI, Chairman of the Board of Councilors of KEIDANREN and Senior Executive Advisor of JX Holdings, Inc.
Their Excellencies exchanged their views on Keidanren’s role for enhancing the business relationship between Japan and Kuwait as well as it’s participation into various activities of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties of two countries in 2011. Their Excellencies also agreed on committing themselves to cooperate in order to maximize the existing business relationship from the both sides.

8/6/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Hatoyama, former Prime Minister of Japan

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, accompanied by the First Secretary Mr. Saad Almehaini, paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Yukio Hatoyama, in order to deliver the letter from the Emir of the State of Kuwait H.H. Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi thanked H.E. Mr. Hatoyama for his efforts to enhance the friendly relationship between Japan and Kuwait and wished H.E. Mr. Hatoyama for further success. H.E. Mr. Hatoyama honoured to receive the letter from the Emir H.H. Sheikh Al-Sabah and hoped to visit Kuwait with other members of DPJ Japan-Kuwait Parliamentarian Friendly League in the near future.

8/4/2010
H.E. Ambassador Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi hosts dinner to commemorate the establishment of DPJ Japan-Kuwait Parliamentarian Friendly League

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan H.E. Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi hosted a dinner upon Executive members of the DPJ Japan-Kuwait Parliamentarian Friendly League, headed by H.E. Mr. Michihiko KANO, Honorary Chairman of League, to congratulate the League’s new establishment and to head start discussions on exchanging the views on the relationship between the Parliamentarian Friendly Leagues of the both countries.
While H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi congratulated the members of League by stating that “today is an important day to mark the beginning of new bilateral friendly relationship between the Parliamentarians of both countries”, main Executive members H.E. Mr. KANO and H.E. Mr. Yoshikatsu NAKAYAMA expressed their gratitude and appreciation to H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi for hosting such an occasion and remarked that their League looked forward to commencing further strong ties and relationship with the Kuwaiti Parliamentarian League.
In addition, the Inauguration Ceremony for the establishment of the League was held one hour prior to the dinner at the New Shugiin Giin Kaikan.

The distinguished guests (members of the House of Representatives) present at the dinner were:
-H.E. Mr. Michihiko KANO (Honorary Chairman)
-H.E. Mr. Yoshikatsu NAKAYAMA (Chairman)
-H.E. Mr. Yukihiko AKUTSU (Vice Chairman)
-H.E. Mr.Yoshinori SUEMATSU (Vice Chairman)
-H.E. Mr. Kimiaki MATSUZAKI (Secretary General)
-H.E. Mr. Toshiaki KOIZUMI (Vice Secretary General)
-H.E. Mr. Takahiro KUROIWA (Bureau Chief)
-H.E. Mr. Jin MATSUBARA
-H.E. Mr. Masao ISHIZU
-H.E. Mr. Masazumi NAKAJIMA
-H.E. Mr. Hiroyuki MORIYAMA

7/29/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets Mr. Makoto HARADA, Director-General, International Planning and Broadcasting Department, NHK

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, accompanied by the Third Secretary Mr. Faraj Alhajeri, paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Makoto HARADA, Director-General, International Planning and Broadcasting Department, NHK.
Their Excellencies exchanged their views on means for enhancing the cooperation between Japan and Kuwait in the Media sector. After the meeting, H.E. Mr. Al-Otaibi also went over the tour of NHK.

7/29/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Ms. Yukiko KOIKE, Vice Director-General of DPJ International Department

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, accompanied by the Third Secretary Mr. Faraj Alhajeri, paid a courtesy call on H.E. Ms. Yukiko KOIKE, Vice Director-General of DPJ International Department, a Member of the House of Representatives.
Their Excellencies exchanged their views on the recent Japanese political situation, and also agreed on committing themselves to enhance the existing friendly relations between Kuwait and Japan toward the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties of two countries in 2011.

7/27/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Aheer, Ambassador of Sudan

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi received the courtesy call from H.E. Mr. Abdun Tarkuk Mataweet Aheer, newly appointed Ambassador of the Republic of Sudan. Their Excellencies agreed on committing themselves to cooperate in order to maximize the existing friendly relationship between the two countries.

7/21/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets Mr. Yutaka Banno, Director-General DPJ International Department

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, accompanied by the First Secretary Mr. Saad Almehaini, paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Yutaka Banno, Director-General DPJ International Department and Member of the House of Representatives.
Their Excellencies exchanged their views on means for enhancing the bilateral relations for the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries in 2011 and acknowledged the importance of further cooperation between Japan and Kuwait regardless of the forthcoming Japanese political situation. Their Excellencies also discussed the cooperative relations in various areas such as the economic and energy sectors.

6/29/2010
H.E. Ambassador Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi meets Mr. Hisashi Tokunaga, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, accompanied by the Second Secretary Mr. Saad Almehaini, paid a courtesy call on Mr. Hisashi Tokunaga, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan and Member of the House of Councillors (Shiga Prefecture, DPJ).
Their Excellencies welcomed the outcome of the successful first Japan-Kuwait Joint Committee held on 2 June, chaired by H.E. Mr. Katsuya OKADA, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan and H.H. Sheikh Dr. Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, Deputy Prime Minister cum Foreign Minister of the State of Kuwait, and also acknowledged the importance of working toward the Joint Statement of June 2010 alongside of the Tax Convention of February 2010. They also noted the importance of further cooperation particularly in the field of the peaceful uses of nuclear power.
Their Excellencies appreciated the lasting friendly relationship between the both countries and committed themselves to enhance the bilateral relations through various commemorative activities in 2011, the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

6/21/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. Lukman Faily, Ambassador of the Republic of Iraq

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi received the courtesy call from H.E. Mr. Lukman Abdulraheem Abdulkareem Faily, newly appointed Ambassador of Iraq. Their Excellencies agreed on committing themselves to cooperate in order to maximize the existing friendly relationship between the two countries.

6/16/2010
Ambassador Otaibi hosts dinner in honor of Kuwaiti, Japanese officials

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi hosted a dinner in honor of visiting Civil Service Commission (CSC) Undersecretary Mohammed Al-Roumi and his accompanying delegation, as well as Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) President Kazuhisa Matsuoka.
During the dinner, the ambassador welcomed the two sides and underscored their significant efforts to help deepen the cooperative relations between Kuwait and Japan. On Monday, the CSC and the JICE sealed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) here on technical cooperation for the development of Kuwait's human resources.
Kuwaiti government officials and experts, in groups of 10-12 members, will undergo training courses provided by the JICE, starting later this year.
Al-Otaibi also showed satisfaction on the agreement and the results of visit to Tokyo by Kuwaiti Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Sheikh Dr. Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah to participate in the first Japan-Kuwait Joint Committee on meeting, June 2. "The five training courses, which will be conducted in Japan for the benefit of Kuwait until June next year under the MOU, is a new and important step toward strengthening and deepening cooperation in all fields between Kuwait and Japan.
also he expressed hope that the two sides will continue joint efforts to enhance the bilateral relations between the two countries, noting that Kuwait and Japan will mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties in 2011.

6/8/2010
H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi meets H.E. Mr. OULD JAFFAR, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi received the courtesy call from H.E. Mr. Mohamed Mamoud OULD JAFFAR, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, with regarding to his completion of duty as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania to Japan.
H.E. Mr.Al-Otaibi expressed his appreciation that H.E. Mr. OULD JAFFAR had accomplished a great achievement for the both countries. Their Excellencies agreed on committing themselves for further cooperation to maximize the existing friendly relationship between the two countries.

6/4/2010
Kuwait's Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Sheikh Dr. Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, who was in Tokyo yesterday as part of an Asian tour, met with ambassadors of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) while here.

Sheikh Mohammad discussed with the ambassadors the outcome of his meetings with Japanese officials, related to GCC-Japanese ties.
Kuwait is holding the rotating presidency of the GCC, while groups Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, the UAE, and Kuwait.
According to the statement, Sheikh Mohammad briefed the ambassadors on his meeting with resigned premier Yukio Hatoyama, which emphasized the importance of free trade negotiations between the two sides and means to overcome any existing hurdles.
Sheikh Mohammad expressed the GCC's keenness for cooperation with Japan and benefitting from its technological expertise, and convoyed the desire of the GCC member states to launch strategic dialogue similar to that existing between the GCC and each of India, China and Russia.
The embassy statement also said that Sheikh Mohammad briefed the ambassadors on the results of the second GCC-ASEAN meeting, which he took part in in Singapore on June 1. The meeting was held yesterday, Thursday, over a luncheon organized by the Kuwaiti Embassy.

6/3/2010
Kuwaiti Foreign Minister leaves Japan, headed for Beijing

June 3 Kuwaiti Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Sheikh Dr. Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah left Tokyo for Beijing on Thursday after holding talks with Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama and Foreign Minister Katsuya Okada and attending the first Japan-Kuwait Joint Committee.
During their talks on Wednesday, Sheikh Dr. Mohammad and Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama reaffirmed importance of resolving issues relating to the Iranian nuclear dossier, the Iraqi situation, as well as the Middle East peace process.
Sheikh Dr. Mohammad also handed an invitation letter to Hatoyama from His Highness the Kuwaiti Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah addressed to Japanese Emperor Akihito to visit Kuwait on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Kuwaiti-Japanese diplomatic ties in 2011.
Sheikh Dr. Mohammad also handed a letter from His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah to outgoing Hatoyama to deliver it to the next premier.
He underlined the significance of the Japan-Kuwait Joint Committee and welcomed the holding of the first meeting on Wednesday ahead of golden jubilee of Kuwait-Japan diplomatic relations.
At the Joint Committee meetings, the two countries agreed to scale up cooperation in the fields of renewable energy, energy conservation, atomic energy, water business, and medical tourism. Kuwait and Japan also renewed commitment to accelerate negotiations on an agreement on the promotion and mutual protection of investments.
The two sides also confirmed their shared desire to conclude a free trade agreement (FTA) between Japan and the Gulf Cooperation Council members (GCC) at an early date and to make mutual efforts to that end. The GCC groups Kuwait, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman, with Kuwait currently holding the rotating presidency.
Japan is also Kuwait's major trading partner, with two-way trade reaching USD 10.53 billion in 2009.
The Joint Committee was established during the visit to Japan by His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah in July 2008 in order to strengthen and develop their bilateral relations, particularly in the field of economy and commerce.

6/2/2010
Kuwait, Japan to cooperate in renewable energy, environment

Kuwait and Japan agreed Wednesday to scale up cooperation in the fields of renewable energy and energy conservation, according to a joint statement signed by the two countries.
The agreement was reached during the first Japanese-Kuwaiti Joint Committee, a ministerial-level meeting co-chaired by Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister of Kuwait Sheikh Dr. Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, Japanese Foreign Minister Katsuya Okada and Parliamentary Secretary for Economy, Trade and Industry Chiaki Takahashi.
The two sides also confirmed their shared desire to conclude a free trade agreement (FTA) between Japan and the Gulf Cooperation Council members (GCC) at an early date and to exert mutual efforts to that end. The GCC groups Kuwait, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman, with Kuwait currently holding its rotating presidency.
The two sides also renewed commitment to accelerate negotiations on an agreement on the promotion and mutual protection of investments. The talks were launched in April in Tokyo. They also agreed to enhance cooperation in the areas of atomic energy, water and medical tourism.
At the outset of the meeting, Sheikh Dr. Mohammad underlined significance of the committee and welcomed the holding of the first meeting ahead of the golden jubilee of Kuwait-Japan diplomatic relations, to fall in 2011. The two countries established diplomatic relations on December 8, 1961, he said.
"The Committee was set up during the visit to Japan by HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah in July 2008, which led to further strengthening of bilateral relations," he said.
He also pointed out fruitful outcomes of the visits to Japan by HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah in his former capacity as prime minister in 2004 and to Kuwait by Japanese former premier Shinzo Abe in 2007. He also thanked Japan for its significant role in Kuwait's liberation from Iraqi occupation.
On his part, Katsuya also welcomed the first round of talks, expressing hope that the committee will contribute to building a multi-layered partnership between Kuwait and Japan.
The Kuwaiti side in the meeting was represented by Mohammad Al-Mijren Al-Roumi, Director of the Foreign Ministry's Asia Department, as well as officials from the Ministry of Commerce, Environment Public Authority, Ministry of Oil, Kuwait Investment Authority, Public Authority for Industry, the Ministry of Higher Education and National Council for Culture, Arts and Letter.
Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Oteibi and Japanese Ambassador to Kuwait Masatoshi Muto also attended the talks.

5/31/2010
Kuwait, Japan begin preparatory talks on joint cmte

Kuwait and Japan on Monday began working-level preparatory talks before the first meeting of the Japan-Kuwait Joint Committee due later this week, with the both sides planning to raise their concerns to share and to discuss content of a planned joint statement.
The Kuwaiti participants were to present such issues as the nation's five-year plan, introduction of nuclear power generation project, needs on renewable energy and energy conservation, as well as regional projects in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states. The Japanese side was expected to note the importance of early conclusions of a bilateral investment treaty and GCC-Japan free trade agreement (FTA) and to underline promotion of exchanges in line with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Kuwaiti-Japanese diplomatic ties in 2011.
The Kuwaiti side in the preparatory meeting was represented by Mohamed Al-Roumi, Director of the Foreign Ministry's Asia Department, and officials from the Ministry of Commerce, Environment Public Authority, Ministry of Oil, Kuwait Investment Authority, Public Authority for Industry, the Ministry of Higher Education, and National Council for Culture. Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi and Japanese Ambassador to Kuwait Masatoshi Muto also attended the talks.
The Japanese side was led by Takehiro Kagawa, Deputy Director-General of the Foreign Ministry's Middle Eastern and African Affairs Bureau, and other officials concerned from the Foreign Ministry and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.
Kuwait's Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Sheikh Dr. Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah is scheduled to attend the upcoming first meeting of the Japan-Kuwait Joint Committee. The committee, which was established during the visit to Japan by H.H. the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah in July 2008, is designed to strengthen and develop their bilateral relations, particularly in the field of economy and commerce.

4/15/2010
H.E. Ambassador to hold talks with Mr. H.E. Mr. Yoshikatsu Nakayama, Special Advisor to the Prime Minister

H.E. Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan, Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Yoshikatsu NAKAYAMA, Member of House of Representatives and Special Advisor to the Prime Minister’s Office, on April 15th, 2010 at the Prime Minister’s Office. Mr. Mohammad Al-Mutairi, First Secretary and Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of the State of Kuwait, accompanied H.E. at the meeting. H.E. Mr. Nakayama also expressed his eagerness to meet again with the Ambassador to discuss about Kuwait and Japan.

4/12/2010
H.E. Ambassador Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi meets Mr. Nobuhiko Suto, Member of the House of Representatives of Japan.

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, accompanied by the First Secretary Mr. Mohammed Al-Mutairi, paid a courtesy call on Mr. Nobuhiko Suto, Member of the House of Representatives and Director of the Committee on Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. Mr. Suto is also a member of the Special Committee on Politics’ Ethics and Election Law.

During the meeting, Mr. Suto expressed his deep interest in the Middle-East region in general, and in the Gulf area in particular, in a reference to the historic ties between Japan and the State of Kuwait that goes back to a half century ago.

Their Excellencies focused on the ways to promote the advancement of the bilateral relations between the State of Kuwait and Japan to include developmental fields such as the renewable energy and new technologies, thus exceeding the traditional oil industry which has been the main trading sector between both countries for several decades.

4/8/2010
H.E. Ambassador Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi meets Mr. Teruhiko Mashiko, Senior Vice Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, accompanied by the First Secretary Mr. Mohammed Al-Mutairi, paid a courtesy call on Mr. Teruhiko Mashiko the Senior Vice Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry and a member of the House of Councilors.

Their Excellencies acknowledged the importance of the active diplomacy conducted by H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi with key-figures in Japan, and the continuous meetings between the Officials of both countries, in a reference to Mr. Mashiko’s recent visit to Kuwait in February 2010, and the role of these meetings in further developing the bilateral relations and the future advancement of the economic, environmental and technological cooperation.

On the other hand, Mr. Mashiko conceded that the diplomatic relations between Kuwait and Japan have witnessed a turning point with the historical visits to Japan by the Prime Minister H.H. Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah in 2004 and then the visit of Prime Minister H.H. Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammed Al-Ahmed Al-Sabah in 2008.

4/8/2010
H.E. Ambassador to hold talks with House of Representatives member Mr. Naoto Sakagucuhi, at House of Representatives Office

H.E. Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan, Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Naoto Sakaguchi, Member of House of Representatives, on April 8, 2010 at Mr. Sakaguchi’s office at House of Representatives Building.

As this was the first time for both parties to hold talks, both were greatly honored to meet and discuss bilateral relations from the standpoint of the need of active bilateral Parliamentarian interaction, to promote further cooperation and investment between the two countries. Mr. Sakaguchi, from his previous career in working in post-conflict countries, strongly stated that Japan should play more advanced role such as acting as intermediator of peace among the international community. To this, H.E. Ambassador completely agreed, adding that Japan should move forward to acquire position in world affairs and especially in the Gulf region, to contribute to peace in world affairs. Further topics regarding Japan’s contribution to world economy and technology, the domestic political situation in Japan, and issue of controlling information today, were discussed. After fruitful exchange of opinions and views, both parties concluded their talks and promised to arrange another meeting for further discussions.

4/5/2010
H.E. Ambassador to hold talks with House of Representatives member Mr. Yukihiko Akutsu, at House of Representatives Office

H.E. Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan, Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Yukihiko Akutsu, Member of House of Representatives on April 5, 2010 at Mr. Akutsu’s office at House of Representatives Building. As this was the first time for both parties to meet, H.E. Ambassador and Mr. Akutsu both briefed on their country’s current politicial situation and exchanged views on the upcoming House of Councillors’ election. H.E. Ambassador emphasized the importance in Kuwait-Japan Paliamentarian League’s presence and role and proposed to Mr. Akutsu for possible membership.

In terms of international relations, both parties agreed that Japan needs to make more efforts to play important role to stabilize the current unstable world situation, as well as participate in various fields such as environment, tourism, technology and education, other than oil, for expansion of investment and cooperation to Kuwait.

4/4/2010
Mrs. Jamilah Al-Otaibi and Embassy of the State of Kuwait to participate in “The 12th Arab Charity Bazaar” at Karajan Place

The Embassy of the State of Kuwait participated in the “The 12th Arab Charity Bazaar” organized by The Society of Wives of Arab Ambassadors and Heads of Missions in Japan at Karajan Place, Ark Hills in Akasaka.
Headed by Mrs. Jamilah Al-Otaibi, wife of Ambassador of the State of Kuwait, Kuwaiti home-made dishes and handicraft were sold at the tables and gathered many people. Among the guests of honor were Her Royal Highness Princess Takamado, who also came to observe the Kuwait booth. Mrs. Jamilah Al-0taibi joined the other Arab Ambassadors’ wives to have tea and talks inside the Arab tent and enjoyed the casual tea conversation. Along with Belly dancing performances, henna painting, Arabic calligraphy, trying on Arabic costumes and raffle prize drawing, the Bazaar proved to be a huge success with more than 4,000 people attending the event.

4/1/2010
H.E. Ambassador to hold talks with House of Representatives member Mr. Toshiaki Koizumi, at House of Representatives Office

H.E. Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan, Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Toshiaki KOIZUMI, Member of House of Representatives and Vice Chair of diet Affairs Committee, on April 1, 2010 at Mr. Koizumi’s office at House of Representatives Building.

Mr. Koizumi was one of the members present at the previous dinner held at Kuwait Embassy residence by H.E. Ambassador and discussions were centered on follow-up proposals on details of how to expedite bi-lateral relations from state visits of head of states, Parliament members and private companies.
Both parties concluded their meeting in mutual consent that continuous mutual meetings and contact were crucial in the cooperation, enhancement and strengthening of the bilateral relationships.

4/1/2010
The active participation in the Arab Day 2010 in the presence of H.E Prime Minister Hatoyama

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi accompanied by his wife Mrs Jamilah and the First Secretary Mr. Mohammed Al-Mutairi have participated in the Arab Day which was held in the presence of H.E. Mr. Yukio Hatoyama Prime Minister of Japan.

Organized by the Council of Arab Ambassadors in Tokyo, for the second year in a raw, the Arab Day has become an anticipated event in Tokyo as well as an extraordinary occasion to further advance the Arab-Japan relations.

In his speech, H.E. Prime Minister Hatoyama expressed Japan’s commitment towards strengthening the ties with the Arab World and expanding the bilateral relations to include various domains beyond the traditional oil sector. The Arab Ambassadors affirmed once again the importance of the already-friendly and historical relations with Japan.

The Arab Day was held at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel and was attended by a large number of highly distinguished guests of politicians, diplomats, businessmen, journalists and artists. It also included presentations about the Arab Heritage and the cultural and historical characteristics of the State of Kuwait and each Arab country, along side with traditional dishes and sweets from the rich Arabian cuisine.

3/31/2010
H.E. Ambassador Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi meets Mr. Kotaro Tamura, Member of the House of Councilors.

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi paid a courtesy call on Mr. Kotaro Tamura, Member of the House of Councilors of Japan, with the company of Mr. Faraj El-Hajeri, Third Secretary of the Embassy.

Their Excellencies exchanged their views about the advancing of the friendly relations between Japan and the State of Kuwait and stressed the importance of the development of the economic ties and the ways to expand them beyond the traditional oil industry.
Mr. Tamura Vice-Chairs the Policy Discussions Committee of the Democratic Party of Japan and simultaneously holds the positions of Parliamentary Secretary of Cabinet Office for Economic and Fiscal Policy for Finance Services and is also a member of the Upper House’s Committee on Cabinet and the Upper House’s Research Committee on International Affairs.

3/26/2010
Dinner in Honor of H.E Ambassador of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh

H.E Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi and his wife Mrs. Jamilah hosted a farewell dinner in honor of H.E Ambassador of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh to Japan Mr. Ashraf-ud-Doula and his wife Mrs. Jasmine, at the Kuwaiti Ambassador’s residence in Tokyo.

Among the distinguished guests who attended the dinner:
- H.E Mr. Saeed Ali Al-Nowais – Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates
- H.E Mrs. Ana Maria Estenez Mercador – Ambassador of the Oriental Republic of Uruguay
- H.E Mr. Samir Arrour – Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco and his wife Mrs. Utako.
- H.E. Mr. Dato’ Shararuddin bin Md Som – Ambassador of Malaysia and his wife Mrs. Datin Norasikin
- Mr. Mitsuo Maruyama

A career diplomat, H.E Ambassador Mr. Doula has come to the end of his four-year mission in Tokyo, during which he succeeded in strengthening the bilateral relations between Dhaka and Tokyo and building deep associations with Japan. This mission is a culmination of a 35-year diplomatic career, during which H.E served as ambassador to Sri Lanka, Vietnam and Australia.

3/24/2010

H.E. Ambassador Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, meets Mr. Yukihisa Fujita, Member of the House of Councilors.

March 24, 2010: H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, accompanied by the First Secretary Mr. Muhammad Al-Mutairi, met Mr. Yukihisa Fujita, Member of the House of Councilors of the Diet of Japan.

The further advancement of the close bilateral relations between the State of Kuwait and Japan were the focus of the meeting, during which, Their Excellencies discussed the prospects of the Japan – Kuwait Parliamentary Friendship Committee.

Mr. Fujita who is the Director-General of the International Department of the DPJ, is currently the Director of the Committee on Financial Affairs, Director of the Research Committee on International Affairs and Global Warming Issues as well as a member of the Committee on Audit within the House the Councilors.

3/15/2010

H.E. Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan, Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, accompanied by Mr. Saad Al-Mehaini, Second Secretary of the Embassy, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Kenji Yamaoka, Chairperson of Diet Affairs Committee of DPJ at Diet Affairs Committee Office, Diet Building. H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi emphasized to H.E. Yamaoka the importance of bi-lateral diplomacy from all levels of high-ranking government officials, such as realization of mutual visits by both Prime Ministers, Foreign Ministers, and Parliamentarian members, to further continue the long-lasting bi-lateral relationship. As one of the most powerful and influential person to influence the current Cabinet. H.E. Mr. Yamaoka expressed his effort to co-ordinate with high-ranking governmental officials to try to realize the visit by Japanese Prime Minister or Foreign Minister to make official visit to Kuwait and Middle East region and H.E. Ambassador expressed his gratitude and appreciation to his heartfelt comment, and wished that both nations’ effort would be realized in the future.

3/15/2010

H.E. Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan, Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, accompanied by Mr. Saad Al-Mehaini,　Second Secretary of the Embassy, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Harunobu Yonenaga, Member of the House of Councilors at House of Councilors headquarters, to discuss on the administrative level the process of establishing and recruiting new members for Japan-Kuwait Parliamentarian League from both countries’ sides and exchanged fruitful opinions about the current political situation in Japanese politics. Mr. Yonenaga, having experience in living in Kuwait and being acquainted with the Kuwaiti way of life, stated that he will take action as one of the key person to coordinate in all aspects to further deepen and strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries. H.E. Ambassador Al-Otaibi agreed with his views and thanked him for his future role in promoting cooperation between the two countries.

3/11/2010

H.E. Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan, Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Katsuya OGAWA, Special Advisor to the Prime Minister and Member of the House of Councillors at House of Councillors headquarters, to discuss Japan-Kuwait bilateral issues and exchange views on further promoting and cooperating in all fields, such as diplomacy, economy, science and trade.

Both parties exchanged views on the political situation of both Kuwait and Japan, and H.E. Ambassador agreed with H.E. Special Advisor the importance of bilateral Parliamentarian diplomacy, and well as active visits by both countries’ important leaders, in order to further continue and enhance the friendly relationship between the two countries.
H.E. Ambassador further extended Kuwait’s invitation to invite important government leaders and Parliamentarians’ Committee to Kuwait as the first step for the mutual partnership.

Dinner in honor of H.E. Mr. Yoshikatsu NAKAYAMA, Special Advisor to H.E. the Prime Minister. 　3/8/2010

H.E. Ambassador Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi hosted a dinner in honor of H.E. Mr. Yoshikatsu NAKAYAMA, Special Advisor to the Prime Minister of Japan, at his residence in Tokyo.
The dinner was an exceptional opportunity to exchange opinions and thoughts on the ways to enhance and strengthen the bilateral relations between Japan and the State of Kuwait. This opportunity is also a proof of the sustainable convergence between Japan and the Arab World.

A number of highly distinguished guests and members of the House of Representatives of Japan attended the dinner, among them:
- H.E. Mr. Samir ARROUR, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco in Japan
- H.E. Mr. Yoshinori SUEMATSU, Chairman of the Special Committee on Consumer Affairs of the House of Representatives.
- H.E. Mr. Kimiaki MATSUZAKI, member of the House of Representatives.
- H.E. Mr. Toshiaki KOIZUMI, member of the House of Representatives.
- H.E. Mr. Kiyohito HASHIMOTO, member of the House of Representatives.
- H.E. Mr. Yoshinobu ACHIHA, member of the House of Representatives.
- H.E. Mr. Masazumi NAKAJIMA, member of the House of Representatives.
- H.E. Mr. Yuichiro TAMAKI, member of the House of Representatives.
- H.E. Mr. Masao ISHIZU, member of the House of Representatives.

Wife of Japanese PM attends event organized by Siwag Society 　3/2/2010

Wife of Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama, Miyoki Hatoyama attended an event here Tuesday organized by wife of Kuwaiti Ambassador Jamila Al-Otaibi and wives of Arab Ambassadors in Tokyo.
Al-Otaibi welcomed the Japanese woman figure during a luncheon held on her honor and lauded the bilateral relations between Kuwait and Japan, multi lateral relations between Japan and Arab world hoping that relations would be bolstered in the future. Hatoyama attended a small exhibition showcasing the culture of each participating Arab state.
On her part, head of the Siwag Society, wife of Bahraini Ambassador, Dr. Salwa Mahrous stressed that the Arab World and Japan enjoy strong relations which needed to be even further developed.
Hatoyama thanked Al-Otaibi and all those who invited her to the luncheon and exhibition, affirming that Japan would be interested in boosting relations with the Arab world.

Kuwaiti envoy hails ties with Japan
2/28/2010

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi on renewed his commitment to the success of the coming year of 2011, the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Kuwait and Japan.
"We are preparing to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of our diplomatic relations in 2011," Al-Otaibi told on the occasion of Kuwait's 49th anniversary of National Day and the 19th Liberation Day. "Our relations were started long before that and before Independence when we cooperated with Arabian Oil Company. In this context, we reaffirm our commitment to maintain the flow of energy sources to Japan with prices that suit the interest of producers and consumers," he said.
Al-Otaibi also expressed hope that Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama will pay a visit to Kuwait at the time he deems appropriate. Last November, H.
H. the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah extended an invitation to his Japanese counterpart to visit Kuwait for talks on strengthening bilateral relations under Japan's new government, which was launched six months ago.
On the economic front, the ambassador welcomed the recent signing of a double-taxation avoidance agreement aimed at facilitating economic activity and investment in each other's country, the first of its kind between Japan and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states. The two countries are currently in talks to promote and protect investement of the investors, according to the ambassador.
The diplomat also urged Japanese companies, which boast their good reputation on the regional and international levels, to join bid for Kuwait's massive development projects with a budget of KD 37 billion.
Referring to the decoration of Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, First Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister by Emperor Akihito last November with the Rising Sun Order, Al-Otaibi said it is a recognition of his considerable efforts in strengthening and promoting the distinguished bilateral relations connecting the two countries, as well as his appreciated endeavors in the environment protection area. "This Imperial Honoring translated Japan's high consideration of the significant logistic services Kuwait provided for Japanese Self-Defense Forces from 2004 till 2008, while these forces had been on ground for humanitarian assistance of post-Saddam Iraq,

Kuwait embassi in tokyo hold Nat''l, Liberation Day celebrations
2/25/2010

In Tokyo, the Kuwaiti Embassy in Japan held a grand reception attended by some 640 guests, including high-ranking politicians, businesspersons, academics and diplomats along with representatives of the Japan-Kuwait Society and prominent media figures at Tokyo's Imperial Hotel.
On the sidelines of the event, the guests were entertained by an exhibition of Kuwaiti heritage and culture presented by the embassy. The latest issue of Japan-Kuwait Society's newsletter was also handed to each guest.
Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi congratulated on this occasion His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah and the Kuwaiti people.
While commending the great advancement in Kuwaiti-Japanese partnership, the ambassador expressed expectations for the success of the coming year of 2011, the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
"Under the wise leaderships in both countries, Kuwaiti-Japanese relations will go through noticeable development in a wide range of fields," the ambassador said.
The guests at the reception congratulated the Kuwaiti leadership and people on the occasion, wishing the country further development and prosperity.
Japan is Kuwait's major trading partner, with two-way trade reaching USD 10. 53 billion in 2009. Kuwait's exports to Japan totaled USD 1.27 billion, and imports USD 9.26 billion last year, according to Japanese government data.
Last week, Kuwait and Japan signed a double-taxation avoidance agreement aimed at facilitating economic activity and investment in each other's country, the first of its kind between Japan and one of the six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states.
Also, His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah paid a visit to Japan in July 2008, which resulted in the creation of a joint ministerial committee between the two governments to further activate cooperation in all fields, particularly economic and commercial partnership.

February 21, 2010: H.E. The Ambassador of the State of Kuwait receives the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs of the State of Kuwait

H.E. The Ambassador Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi received in his office in Tokyo the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs of the State of Kuwait H.E. Dr. Adel A F H Al-Falah, accompanied by a distinguished delegation who is participating in the 8th Seminar on “The Dialogue among civilizations between Japan and the Islamic World”, held in Tokyo.

The Seminar was launched in 2001, under the guidance of then Foreign Minister of Japan H.E Yohei Kono with the purpose to enrich the understanding between the Islamic countries and Japan and to enhance people to people exchanges and to strike a common understanding for these nations to tackle the global issues.

At the Riyadh meeting in March 2008, King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia launched his initiative of the interfaith dialogue which was institutionalized during the 7th Seminar that was held in Kuwait in 2009.

February 15, 2010: The Embassy of the State of Kuwait organizes a dinner in Honor of the delegation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The Embassy of the State of Kuwait held a dinner party in honor of H.E. Mr. Jasim Ahmad F. ALAMEER, Director of the Administration and Finance Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and His Excellency’s accompanying delegation.

The Kuwaiti delegation which included architects and designers from the Ministry of Foreign affairs was dispatched to supervise a number of architectural projects which are scheduled to be launched in the near future.

The dinner party was a warm occasion to meet and exchange ideas and thoughts despite the cold winter weather outside.

Ambassador Holds Talks with Speaker of House of Representatives of Japan Mr. Takahiro Yokomichi
2/9/2010

H.E. Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan, Abdul-Rahman Al Otaibi, held a meeting with Speaker of House of Representatives of Japan Mr. Takahiro Yokomichi on February 9th, 2010, during which they discussed bilateral issues and exchanged views on ways of promoting further diplomatic relations and expanding cooperation between the State of Kuwait and Japan.

From the perspective of parliamentary cooperation, H.E agreed with Mr. Takahiro Yokomichi that the formation of the new Kuwait-Japan Parliamentary Friendship Committee will lead to exchanging visits on this level and therefore deepen and strengthen the distinguished relations of friendship and partnership between the State of Kuwait and Japan.

Ambassador Holds Talks with Vice President of House of Councilors of Japan Mrs. Akiko Santo
2/8/2010

H.E. Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan, Abdul-Rahman Al Otaibi, held a meeting with Vice President of House of Councilors of Japan Mrs. Akiko Santo on February 8th, 2010, and discussed together bilateral issues and prospects of promoting cooperation in all fields between the two countries. H.E. agreed with the vice President that the future promises ever-growing friendship and further mutually beneficial partnership between the State of Kuwait and Japan in such vital fields as diplomacy, economy, trade, education, science, and culture.

Ambassador Holds Talks with Member of House of Representatives Mr. Kozo Watanabe 　2/4/2010

H.E. Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan, Abdul-Rahman Al Otaibi, held a meeting with Member of House of Representatives (HR) of Japan Mr. Kozo Watanabe at HR headquarters on February 4th, 2010, with a view to discussing and exchanging views about the most important current political and economic issues in Japan, and bilateral relations between the two countries.

With regard to the bilateral relations between the State of Kuwait and Japan, Mr. Watanabe said that in the framework of the political and economic changes being brought in by the transition of power from the Liberals to the Democrats following the general elections held last August 2009, the current government has put in focus its policy of establishing and promoting the concept of "East Asia Community" which can be extended to Middle East countries including Kuwait.

H.E. Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan, Abdul-Rahman Al Otaibi, appreciated the idea, wished the current government all success in its mission and highlighted the Kuwaiti leadership's commitment to deepen and strengthen further the cooperation relations between the State of Kuwait and Japan.

H.E. Ambassador Meet MP Mrs. Tanaka Mieko
2/4/2010

H.E. Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan, Abdul-Rahman Al Otaibi, held talks with Member of House of Representatives (HR) of Japan Mrs. Tanaka Miyoko at HR headquarters on February 4th, 2010, about the latest developments of the Japanese political and economic scene. As far as bilateral relations are concerned, H.E. stated that as the State of Kuwait and Japan will be celebrating the fiftieth anniversary of their distinguished historical diplomatic relations and cooperation, the two countries are due to embrace further progress and prosperity in the coming fifty years and beyond.

H.E. also pointed to the historical achievement Kuwaiti women reaped when they secured four seats in the Kuwaiti Parliament in May 2009 legislative elections, and underscored their role in the development of democracy in Kuwait. In her turn, Mrs. Miyoko welcomed the success Kuwaiti women achieved in Parliamentary elections, and emphasized that such success will further promote and strengthen the democratic process Kuwait is embarking on. By the same token, she appreciated the idea of joining the Kuwaiti-Japanese Parliamentary Committee and exchanging visits in the framework of the bilateral parliamentary cooperation.

H.E. Ambassador Meet President of Your Party Mr. Yoshimi Watanabe
1/27/2010

H.E. Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan, Abdul-Rahman Al Otaibi, held a meeting with President of Your Party Mr. Yoshimi Watanabe at his office in the HQ of the House of Representatives of Japan January 27th, 2010. During this meeting they discussed the current political and economic developments in Japan as well as the bilateral relations and cooperation between the State of Kuwait and Japan. H.E. said that the two countries have enjoyed excellent relations of friendship and partnership since the establishment of bilateral diplomatic ties and that the future lies ahead full of more constructive and positive cooperation. From his part, Mr. Watanabe highlighted the importance of the State of Kuwait for Japan and expressed his desire to see more success and progress being achieved out of cooperation between the two countries.

Kuwait, Japan to boost efforts toward trade, investment protection deals 12/10/2009

Ambassador Sheikh Ali Al-Jaber Al-Khaled Al-Sabah, who led the Kuwaiti delegation to the first Japan-Arab Economic Forum in Tokyo, agreed on Thursday with Japanese officials to promote joint efforts to upgrade bilateral economic and trade relations.
During separate talks with Nobuyoshi Chihara, Deputy Director-General at Foreign Ministry's Middle Eastern and African Affairs Bureau and Hideichi Okada, Director-General of Commerce and Information Policy Bureau at the Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry, Sheikh Ali expressed his satisfaction towards the forum and Thursday's meetings, saying it showcased Japan's hospitality. The Kuwaiti ambassador, who serves as Director of Foreign Ministry's Economic Department, also congratulated Chihara and Okada on Democratic Party of Japan's victory in Lower House election on August 30, and expressed hope to strengthen cooperation in all fields between the two countries under Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama's administration. He also stressed the commitment of the Kuwaiti leadership to continue its efforts and cooperation with the new Japanese government to ensure further progress and prosperity for both countries. The meetings were accompanied by Kuwait's Charge d'affaires Mohammed Al-Mutairi.
Sheikh Ali encouraged Japanese companies to engage in economic activities and to increase investment in Kuwait, expressing hope that the two countries will soon reach final agreements on investment protection, as well as economic and trade cooperation, which will give a tremendous boost to the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Kuwait and Japan in 2011. For his part, Chihara thanked for the visit of Sheikh Ali to Japan and said he shares the same views with Sheikh Ali on the development of bilateral relations. "I hope Kuwait will continue its cooperation toward the conclusion of those agreements on them, as well as the Japan-GCC free trade agreement," Chihara told the ambassador.
Okada said Kuwait and Japan have gradually expanded their cooperation not only in the field of oil but also across a broad range of areas, including education and modern technology, adding that the Kuwaiti - Japanese joint committee will endorse efforts to achieve final agreements on trade and investment. Sheikh Ali attended the Japan-Arab Economic Forum earlier this week as on behalf of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Dr. Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah. The forum was established by the Japanese government and the Arab League, in cooperation with Japan Cooperation Center for the Middle East and Japan Business Federation, to advance the construction of mutual multi-layered relations in various fields, including trade, investment, energy, environment, scientific and technological research, and the development of human resources.

Kuwaiti delegation advances economic cooperation with Japan 12/9/2009

The Kuwait delegation has actively engaged in advancing economic cooperation between Kuwait and Japan at the first Japan-Arab Economic Forum held in Toky. The Kuwaiti representatives led by Ambassador Sheikh Ali Khaled Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, who serves as Director of Foreign Ministry's Economic Department, paid an effort to facilitate the entry of Kuwaiti companies and businessmen into the Japanese market, and to provide the clear picture of Japanese investors with Kuwait's investment climate. The delegation was also accompanied by Charge d'affaires at the Kuwaiti Embassy in Japan Mohamed Al-Mutairi.
In his speech at the two-day forum, Sheikh Ali announced the initiative of H.H.the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to establish a support fund for small and medium-sized companies in the 22-member League of Arab States. The initiative of H.H.the Amir to establish a support fund, with a capital estimated at USD 2 billion, to which Kuwait will contribute USD 500 million, for small and medium-sized companies in the League of Arab States member states was commended during the ministerial meeting of the forum.
Sheikh Ali also noted at the forum that such measures will help improve the investment climate and infrastructure development in the Arab countries and enhance their chances of integration into the global economy. In the working-level meetings, Nawal Al Fuzaia, Assistant undersecretary for economic affairs at the Oil Ministry, Dr. Adel Al Yousifi, Board Member of Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Wael Al-Sagar, Co-Chairman of Kuwaiti-Japanese Businessmens Committee and Abdul-Aziz Salem Al-Badr, Director of General Commission of Investment called on both bilateral and regional cooperation with Japan in a wide range of fields, such as energy, environment, investment, tourism, education, human resource development and promotion of employment in small and medium-sized companies. In collaboration with Third Secretary at the Embassy Faraj Al-Hajri who speaks fluent Japanese, the Kuwaiti team also focused on seminars about cooperation in the fields of sustainable development, water business, science and technology, and actively involved in promoting cooperation in trade and investment.
The economic forum was established by the Japanese government and the Arab League, in cooperation with Japan Cooperation Center for the Middle East and Japan Business Federation, to advance the construction of mutual multi-layered relations in various fields, including trade, investment, energy, environment, scientific and technological research, and the development of human resources. The second Japan-Arab Economic Forum will be hosted by Tunisia in 2010. The trade volume between Japan and Arab states hit USD 184 billion in 2008, compared with USD 48 billion in 2003. .

H.H. the Amir''s initiative to support fund for Arab firms commended 12/7/2009

Ambassador Sheikh Ali Khaled Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, who heads the Kuwaiti delegation at the ongoing Japan-Arab Economic Forum, emphasized on Monday the initiative of H.H. the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to establish a support fund for small and medium-sized companies in Arab nations. The agreement was announced in the chair's summary after the ministerial session of the first Japan-Arab Economic Forum held in Tokyo.
The initiative of H.H. the Amir to establish a support fund, with a capital estimated at USD two billion, for small and medium-sized companies in the League of Arab States member states was commended during Monday's ministerial meeting of the forum, in which the Arab side confirmed the importance of developing small and medium-sized companies in the league.
Co-Chairman of the forum Ambassador Sheikh Ali, who is also Director of Foreign Ministry's Economic Department, urged the Kuwaiti private sector and businessmen to participate and contribute effectively and meaningfully in the programs of workshops, seminars and bilateral meetings with major Japanese companies and businessmen who have a desire to invest in Kuwait. He also highlighted the role of the Japanese private sector in Kuwait and Kuwaiti businessmen in the areas of economic and trade cooperation of different types and ranges between the two countries.
Ahead of the two-day forum, Sheikh Ali and the Charge d'affaires at the Kuwaiti Embassy in Japan Mohamed Al-Mutairi attended the signing ceremony of MOU on between the Japanese government and the 22-member states on the establishment of the Japan-Arab Economic Forum. The ceremony was also attended by Arab League Secretary General Amr Moussa and Japanese Foreign Minister Katsuya Okada and Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Masayuki Naoshima. During his talks with Okada and Naoshima on the sidelines of the signing ceremony, Sheikh Ali expressed the strong desire of the Kuwaiti leadership to further strengthen bilateral economic and trade relations. He also told Japanese ministers that Kuwait is keen to expand the bilateral relationship from oil cooperation to other areas that will benefit from Japan's technological and scientific experiences.
He also said Kuwait attaches importance to Japan because of historical ties between the two countries, which they will jointly celebrate the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations in 2011.

November 22, 2009: The Embassy of the State of Kuwait participates in a Futsal tournament

In a spirit of friendship and fair play, the Embassy of the State of Kuwait, among 24 embassies in Japan and a team from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has participated in the 17th Annual Futsal Tournament {The Mini World Cup 2009} on the 22nd of November 2009 at the Hiranuma Sports Gymnasium in Yokohama. This event is organized by the Foreign Embassies Friendship Association in order to promote international exchange and friendship between the embassies in Japan.
H.E Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan and Mr. Mohammed Al-Mutairi, First Secretary at the Embassy, along with members of His Excellency’s family and the local staff, formed a team to play for fun and beautiful memories and won the Fair Play Prize of the tournament.

The Council of the Arab Ambassadors and Head of Delegations in Japan meets at the Embassy of the State of Kuwait

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi headed the regular monthly meeting of the Council of the Arab Ambassadors and Head of Delegations in Japan held at the Embassy of the State of Kuwait on Friday the 13th of November, 2009. Matters related to the relations between Japan and the Arab countries and the latest preparations for the Japan-Arab Economic Forum to be held in Tokyo from the 6th till the 9th of December, 2009 were on the meeting’s agenda, during which, constructive discussions over the Council’s internal affairs were also conducted.

November 18, 2009 Kuwait''s PM sends invitation to Japanese counterpart

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi conveyed the warmest regards from H.H.the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah to Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama, who took office in mid-September, . In his letter handed to Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirofumi Hirano, Japan's top government spokesman, Sheikh Nasser also extended an invitation to the Japanese premier to visit Kuwait for talks on strengthening bilateral relations under Japan's new government, . Sheikh Nasser congratulated Hatoyama on his Democratic Party of Japan's (DPJ) landslide victory in the August 30 Lower House election and his inauguration of the DPJ-led government, stressing his eagerness to further develop bilateral relations.
During his meeting with Hirano, which was also attended by Yoshikatsu Nakayama, Special Adviser to Hatoyama, the Kuwaiti ambassador called for greater cooperation and joint work with Japan. He also expressed hope that the Japanese leader will pay an official visit to Kuwait at the time he deems appropriate to discuss issues of common concern.

H.E. Mr Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi participates in the 2009 Kyoto Prize Banquet

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, has participated as a guest of honor at the 2009 Kyoto Prize Banquet that was held in Kyoto, in the presence of Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado and distinguished guests including former DPJ leader Mr. Ichiro Ozawa and a number of Ambassadors and Consuls General.

Organized by the Inamori Foundation, this prize is awarded each year to scientists, scholars and artists who have made sincere lifetime efforts. The 2009 Prize was granted to three scientists: Dr. Isamu Akasaki, Dr. Peter Raymond Grant, Dr. Barbara Rosemary Grant and to the musician and composer Mr. Pierre Boulez in recognition of their enthusiasms for their own works and their earnestness to carry out their missions.

November 5, 2009　Kuwait Embassy in Japan holds luncheon in honor of Sheikh Jaber

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi hosted a luncheon on Thursday in honor of Kuwait's First Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and his accompanying delegation at the embassy.
Earlier in the day, Sheikh Jaber was conferred by the Japanese Emperor with the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun, Japan's highest-ranked decoration conferred on foreigners.
"I deeply appreciate the honor. It is not only for me, but also for the entire Kuwaiti armed forces and the Kuwaiti people,", and renewed his commitment to promoting better understanding and elevating the bilateral cooperation.
"The award demonstrates Japan's acknowledgement of earnest efforts exerted by Sheikh Jaber to promote political, diplomatic, and environmental exchange and mutual understanding between the two countries," Al-Otaibi lauded, and congratulated Sheikh Jaber.
The luncheon was also attended by Japanese Ambassador to Kuwait Masatoshi Muto.
Sheikh Jaber arrived in Tokyo on Wednesday for his first official visit here since November 2004.
In April 2007, then Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe visited Kuwait, and His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah paid an official visit to Japan in July 2008. The two countries have agreed to celebrate the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations in 2011.

November 5, 2009　Kuwaiti Defense Minister conferred Japan''s highest decoration

Japanese Emperor Akihito on Thursday bestowed Imperial Decoration of "Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun" on Kuwaiti First Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah in a ceremony at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama handed Sheikh Jaber the certificate of the order.
The award demonstrates Japan's acknowledgement of his significant contribution to promoting political, diplomatic, and environmental exchange and mutual understanding between Kuwait and Japan.
The Imperial Order is awarded twice a year, and Sheikh Jaber is the only Arab who receives the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun, Japan's highest-ranked decoration conferred on foreigners, in this fall's commemoration.
"I deeply appreciate the honor. It is not only for me, but also for the entire Kuwaiti armed forces and the Kuwaiti people," after the ceremony, and renewed his commitment to promoting better understanding and elevating the bilateral cooperation.
In a cordial conversation with Hatoyama, Sheikh Jaber conveyed the message from His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah that extends an invitation to the Japanese premier to visit Kuwait. Hatoyama responded that he will make the appropriate arrangements for this trip.
Sheikh Jaber was accompanied by his party and Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi and Major General Al-Humaidhi.
Established in 1875, the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun is Japan's oldest award and bestowed by the Emperor to outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to promoting ties with Japan.
The Japanese monarchy is the world's oldest continuous hereditary monarchy still in existence, which can be traced back some 1600 years.
From March 2004 to December 2008, Air Self-Defense Force (ASDF), with 200 personnel and transport planes, was stationed at Kuwait's Ali Al-Salem Air Base and engaged in a non-combat airlift mission as part of Japan's efforts to help Iraq rebuild.
During its nearly five-year deployment, ASDF carried out more than 800 separate airlifts to Iraq without a single accident.
The Kuwaiti leadership and people extended the required strategic cooperation and hospitality to the air force in executing its humanitarian mission in Iraq smoothly.

November 5, 2009　Kuwait''s defense minister concludes crucial mission to Japan

Kuwaiti First Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah concluded his visit to Japan and left here to return home on Thursday.
At Tokyo's Haneda airport, Sheikh Jaber and his accompanying delegation were seen off by Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi and Japanese Ambassador to Kuwait Masatoshi Muto, as well as Kuwaiti diplomats and Japanese Foreign Ministry officials.
Sheikh Jaber was conferred the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun, Japan's highest-ranked decoration conferred on foreigners, by Japanese Emperor Akihito for his contribution to promoting political, diplomatic and environmental exchange and mutual understanding between the two countries. In a cordial conversation with Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama at the Imperial Palace during the conferment ceremony, Sheikh Jaber conveyed the message from H.H. the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah that extends an invitation to the Japanese premier to visit Kuwait, which Hatoyama responded that he will make the appropriate arrangements to realize his trip.
Sheikh Jaber expressed hope that the two nations will discuss various important issues as a way to further elevate alreadly friendly ties if the Japanese premier comes to Kuwait.

November 4, 2009　Ambassador to Japan says honoring DM in Japan is tribute to homeland

The First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense arrived here Wednesday and is to receive the state's highest honor, "which is testimony to relations with Kuwait and cause of pride for the homeland," said Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi.
Emperor Akihito will bestow the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun, Japan's highest-ranked decoration conferred on foreigners, to the minister "in appreciation to his great efforts in strengthening ties and in gratitude for the logistic support Kuwait offered Japan's Air Self-Defense Force from 2004 to 2008 as it served in Iraq," the diplomat said.
The ambassador added the minister is also being lauded for his great role in the field of environment protection and preservation.
Al-Otaibi said that Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak was informed of the decision of the Japanese government to grant him this honor in a letter delivered through the Japanese Prime Minister, Yukio Hatoyama.
This is an honoring of the people of Kuwait, and it would certainly boost the bilateral relations between the two friendly nations, the diplomat concluded.

November 4, 2009　Sheikh Jaber arrives in Tokyo to be honored by Emperor

Kuwaiti First Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah arrived here on Wednesday and is scheduled to attend a medal conferment ceremony at the Imperial Palace on Thursday, where Emperor Akihito will bestow on him the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun, Japan's highest-ranked decoration conferred on foreigners.
Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama will confer the certificate in the ceremony.
The Imperial Order is awarded twice a year, and Sheikh Jaber is the only Arab who receives the most prestigious honor in this fall's commemoration.
According to the Japanese government, the decision demonstrates its acknowledgement of Sheikh Jaber's significant contribution to promoting political, economic, and environmental exchange and mutual understanding between Kuwait and Japan.
Established in 1875, the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun is Japan's oldest award and bestowed by the Emperor to outstanding individuals who have made notable contributions to promoting ties with Japan.
The Japanese monarchy is the world's oldest continuous hereditary monarchy still in existence, which can be traced back some 1600 years.
Upon arrival, Sheikh Jaber was received by Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi and other diplomats from the Kuwaiti embassy, as well as Japanese Ambassador to Kuwait Masatoshi Muto.
Al-Otaibi is expected to host a luncheon in honor of Sheikh Jaber and his delegation.
From March 2004 to December 2008, the Japanese air force, with 200 personnel and three C-130 transport planes, was stationed at Ali Al-Salem Air Base in Kuwait and engaged in a non-combat airlift mission as part of Japan's efforts to help Iraq rebuild.
During its nearly five-year deployment, the air force carried out more than 800 separate airlifts to Baghdad and elsewhere in Iraq without a single accident.
The Kuwaiti leadership and people extended the strategic cooperation and hospitality to Japanese troops in executing its humanitarian mission in Iraq smoothly.
Sheikh Jaber last visited Japan in November 2004, when he also promoted cooperation with Japan in environmental areas as President of the High Council for environment.

October 27, 2009　The Embassy of the State of Kuwait participated in the 15th Charity Bazaar of the Nihon Chukinto Africa Funjinkai

The Embassy of the State of Kuwait participated in the 15th Charity Bazaar of the Nihon Chukinto Africa Funjinkai (The Japan Middle East Africa Ladies Group) at Royal Park Hotel in Tokyo. This Bazaar by this Group has been held every two years from 1981 to raise funds in order to help the people in need in Africa and the Middle East, as well as promote friendship between African, Arab and Japanese ladies. Spouse of Kuwait Ambassador Jamilah Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi participated in this charitable event and was in charge of both the handicraft and food booths, where traditional handicraft goods and delicious Kuwaiti cuisine were sold. Madame Jamilah, along with other newcomer Ambassadors’ wives, presented each country’s sweets and participated in the tea party with H.R.H. Princess Takamado. Princess Takamado visited the Kuwaiti pavilion, as well as other Embassies’ pavilion and had a very pleasant talk with Madame Jamilah. The Embassy hopes to continue to support and assist the Nihon Chukinto Africa Funjinkai’s activities in raising funds for help and promoting understanding and friendship between Arab and African region and Japan and wishes to participate in their next upcoming Bazaar.

Japan welcomes Sheikh Jaber''s visit

Japanese Defense Minister Toshimi Kitazawa welcomed Tuesday the upcoming visit to Tokyo by Kuwait's First Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah slated for early November, where he will meet Emperor Akihito. Kitazawa's remarks came during his meeting with Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi earlier in the day. Kitazawa expressed gratitude to Kuwait for its support to the Japanese troops' reconstruction aid mission in Iraq, which had based in Kuwait.
Al-Otaibi showed his appreciation for this kind gesture which will be positive impact on the development of relations between the two countries at all levels, recalling the role of Japan's historic support of Kuwait and hopes to promote closer ties of friendship between Kuwait and Japan. Tuesday's meeting was accompanied by Kuwait's Third Secretary Faraj Al-Hajeri.

H.E. Mr Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi meets Parliamentarian Mr. Muneo Suzuki

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, accompanied by the Second Secretary Mr. Saad Al-Muhaini held a meeting on the 21st of October 2009 with Mr. Muneo Suzuki, lawmaker and Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the New Party Big Earth. The ways to sustain and develop the historic relations between the State of Kuwait and Japan were at the heart of the discussions.

H.E. the Ambassador meets the new Chief of Protocol at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs

H.E. Mr Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan paid a visit to H.E. Mr Seiji Kojima to congratulate him on his new assignment as Chief of Protocol at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. The discussions focused on the bilateral relations between Japan and the State of Kuwait and the ways to broaden them.

Emb-KWT Para-Olym games

The Embassy of the State of Kuwait paid high tribute and celebrated the successful performance of the Kuwaiti disabled (those with special needs) athletics team in the First Asian Young Disabled Games Championship held in Tokyo in September, 2009.
The Embassy was so delighted to celebrate the team’s reaping of 3 gold medals and 6 silver ones in this continental championship. The Kuwaiti team was challenging, displayed high skills, showed high sense of competitiveness and determination, and achieved prideful harvest. On this memorable occasion, H.E. Ambassador Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi received at his office on September 14th Mr. Nasser Fahd Al-Ajmi and the accompanying doctor of the Kuwait team, MD. Bassam Al-Qasrawi.
H.E. highlighted the big importance and unfailing support the State of Kuwait gives to its fellow citizens from among those with special needs (the handicapped people) who constitute an endeared layer of the national social texture endowed by the fatherly care of the national political leadership headed by H.H. Emir of the country May Allah continue to protect and bestow His Blessings upon him. H.E. Ambassador also hinted to H.H. the Emir’s commitment to reaching out to them, facilitating all the difficulties facing them, and providing them with all what they need for their smooth integration in the Kuwaiti society as an active human power in all sectors of the national development process, especially in the field of sports.
Besides, H.E. Ambassador praised the team players’ determination to embrace victory, which he considers important for holding high the name of the State of Kuwait in international competitions, especially as Disabled sports is given unfailing care by H.H. emir of the State of Kuwait and his well-steered government. He also stressed that the participation of the Kuwaiti disabled sports youth in this big Asian competition demonstrates that Kuwaiti sports has great and distinguished technical potential, and that the success achieved this time is a considerable incentive for more and better achievements in the future.
For its part, our team thanked and appreciated high the efforts, the importance, and the presence the Embassy of the State of Kuwait in Tokyo generously displayed, stressing that this has encouraged and supported the team.
In the end of the games a closure ceremony was held, at which parts of Japanese folklore were performed as well as examples of the progress of this beautiful country were displayed.

Kuwaiti Ambassador holds Iftar for Muslim community in Tokyo September 11, 2009

Heads of Islamic centers in Japan lauded Kuwait's role in supporting Muslims around the world, out of belief in the message of peace that this religion carried. This came during an Iftar (fast-breaking meal) held by Kuwaiti Ambassador Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi for members of the Arabic-Islamic Institute, the Islamic Center of Japan, the Japanese Muslim Association, and the Islamic Waqf (endowment) Society in Japan. Arab and Muslim figures also attended the event. President of the Japanese Muslim Association Dr. Saleh Al-Samarraei lauded Kuwait's role in supporting Muslims around the world, and especially in Japan, noting that the first contribution made to the association in the 1960s was from Kuwait. He emphasized the generosity of the Kuwaiti government and people in this respect. Those present exchanged views over means to enlighten people here about Islam within the frame of Japanese laws, and to shed light on its teaching of tolerance and moderation. On his part, Ambassador Al-Otaibi said that Kuwait spared no effort in supporting Muslims around the world, out of belief in the message of Islam that called for respecting others regardless of their beliefs and religions.

Ramadan Fast-breaking Party & Gregean Tradition Celebrations

H.E. Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi and his respected spouse held the embassy annual Ramadan fast-breaking Party at his residence last Saturday 5 September, 2009. Heads of Arab diplomatic missions in Tokyo, their families, and the embassy members attended the party.
This party also witnessed the embassy celebration of the Kuwaiti popular festive tradition of Gergean which falls on the 14th, 15th, and 16th of the Holy Month of Ramadan and whose celebrations starts after the fast-breaking time of these days.
H.E. ambassador and his respected spouse explained to the present this tradition which is one of the most important popular celebrations children await every year. In the past they used to celebrate it by counting the neighborhoods they would visit and the houses they would knock their doors, while their mothers would sew Gergean bags and buy sweets and nuts in preparation for this traditional occasion.
They also explained that the popular word Gergean means that which is mixed and variegated. Besides, H.E. Ambassador talked about the leading role of the State of Kuwait in extending help and assistance to the Muslim communities, its commitment to the Islamic unity, and its role in the international arena, making it the focus of the whole world. And he emphasized the importance of the unity of the Muslim community and its harmony with other communities in Japanese society.
H.E. Ambassador expressed his happiness with meeting Excellencies Heads of Arab diplomatic missions and their respected families in Tokyo on this occasion, which increases understanding and cooperation and strengthens social bonds especially in the Blest Holy Month of Ramadan.

H.E the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait meets Kuwaiti –Japanese Friendship Association’s Chairman

His Excellency Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, Ambassador of the State of Kuwait in Japan has met at his office on Monday, 17th of August 2009, newly appointed Chairman of the Kuwaiti – Japanese Friendship Association Mr. Kuniaso Takeda in the presence of Mr. Faraj Al-Hajeri, Third Secretary at the Embassy. The discussions focused on the bilateral economic relations between Japan and the State of Kuwait and the ways to broaden them to the commercial, cultural, legal and financial fields thus beyond the traditional cooperation based on the oil industry.

The Kuwaiti Water Polo in Tokyo, Japan

H.E. Mr Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi hosted a dinner reception in honor of the Kuwaiti Sports Delegation participating in the three water games competitions (swimming, diving and water polo) of the 6th AASF Asian Age Group Championships 2009 held in Japan with the participation of 24 countries.The Ambassador congratulated the players on winning the Silver medal in water polo against the Japanese team in a game which His Excellency was keen on watching.His Excellency also expressed his happiness and appreciation for the excellent performance of the players and presented his sincere congratulations to the Kuwaiti Diving Team winner of 5 medals: 1 Gold, 3 Silver and 1 Bronze, and especially to the Kuwaiti diver's Mr. Hussein Qallaf and Mr. Suleiman Al-Sabaa who won respectively the Silver medal and the Bronze medal in the 1 Meter Springboard Diving Competition for Men during the same championships.

August.13.2009
All Kuwaitis in Japan safe from quake and floods

All the Kuwaiti nationals in Japan are safe from recent powerful earthquake that struck central Japan, as well as typhoon-triggered floods in western region.
The Embassy has kept close contact with Kuwaiti nationals registered in Japan and confirmed that they are all safe and in good health. The Embassy also said Kuwaiti citizens traveling in Japan are strongly encouraged to notify the Embassy their whereabouts and contact numbers.
A strong earthquake with a magnitude of 6.5 on the Richter scale jolted central Japan on Tuesday morning, killing at least one person, injuring more than 120 others. The quake was also felt in Tokyo.
Meanwhile, 18 people have died due to heavy rain in the wake of Typhoon Etau that slammed into Japan's west coast on Monday. Some 500 houses were flooded and nearly 2,300 people evacuated in Hyogo Prefecture, some 490 km west of Tokyo.

August.7.2009
Kuwaiti ambassador participates in Hiroshima bomb commemoration

Kuwait's Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi participated in the commemoration of the 64th Hiroshima A-bomb anniversary, upon the invitation of Hiroshima Mayor Tadatoshi Akiba. The ceremony was attended by the ambassadors of 60 states accredited in Tokyo, as well as a representative of UN General Assembly President Miguel d'Escoto Brockmann, former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, and other international figures.
The Kuwaiti ambassador, met with the Hiroshima mayor, and conveyed the condolences of the Kuwaiti leadership and people to the people of Japan.
Al-Otaibi said Kuwait shared this pain with Japan, out of belief in the principle of lasting global peace and denouncing violence and war.
He noted that Kuwait was still suffering from the aftermath of the Iraqi invasion of 1990, and called on Hiroshima to establish a gathering for peace, saying that Kuwait stood ready to discuss cooperation in this matter.
The Kuwaiti ambassador also talked to one of the bomb's survivors, who recounted the horror of the blast. All participants underscored the importance of ridding the world of weapons of mass destruction by 2020.

H.E. Ambassador Attends Cormorant-Fishing Party Organized by Japanese Imperial Household

Following the official invitation by the Grand master of the Ceremonies of the and Mrs. Koichi Haraguchi, H.E. Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan, Mr. Abdul-Rahman al-Otaibi, attended a Cormorant-Fishing Party on the River Nagara, Gifu Prefecture, last Wednesday, July 29, 2009. Representatives of the Diplomatic Missions and the Delegation of the European Commission in Tokyo also attended. This Imperial tradition which is held annually was an opportunity H.E. availed himself of to strengthen the friendly historical ties connecting the State of Kuwait and Japan all as an Imperial Household, a government, and a people.

H.E. Ambassador Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi and Parliamentarian
Mr. Hiromichi Watanabe Met

H.E. Ambassador Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi held a meeting with Mr. Hiromichi Watanabe, Member both in Japan’s House of Representatives and Japan-Kuwait Parliamentary Friendship Association in Mr. Watanabe’s　office at House of Representatives’ Headquarters in Tokyo, June19, 2009. They expressed their deep thanks to each other for creating this opportunity and taking this new initiative on the shared way of achieving excellence in the Kuwaiti-Japanese relations.H.E. Ambassador Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi emphasized that his meeting with Mr. Watanabe coincided with June 19th on which the State of Kuwait annually celebrates its Independence Day, an endeared national memory Kuwait takes advantage of to express to its friend states its unfailing commitment to a positive international cooperation sustainable enough to ensure peace, security, stability, and prosperity around the world. It is likewise an opportunity Kuwait avails itself of to unwaveringly stress its constructive diplomatic, political, and economic commitments toward Japan, and to spare no efforts in the continuous process of promoting and solidifying bilateral relations through ways and means capable of protecting and holding dear both of Kuwait and Japan’s national interests. H.E. Ambassador Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi expressed his sincere thanks to Mr. Watanabe for his understanding and efforts to contribute to the strengthening of relations and cooperation between Kuwait and Japan.

H.E. Ambassador Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi and Parliamentarian
Mr. Masahisa Sato Met

H.E. Ambassador Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi held a meeting with Mr. Masahisa Sato, Member both in Japan’s House of Councilors and Japan-Kuwait Parliamentary Friendship Association in his (Mr. Sato’s) office at House of Councilors’ Headquarters, last Monday 15 of April, 2009. H.E. Ambassador was accompanied by First Secretary Mr. Mohammad Al-Mutairi.

H.E. Ambassador and Mr. Sato discussed the most important and latest developments of the political and economic scene in Japan, including the current situation in the Japanese Parliament and how it will after the forthcoming general elections. They have also discussed Japan’s positions on the current regional and international issues which might have a bearing on the developments of the interior situation.

Finally, Mr. Sato expressed his sincere thanks to the positive role being played by Kuwait towards Japan, especially as regards Kuwait’s hospitable hosting of Japan’s SDF when it was on its post-war Iraq Reconstruction humanitarian mission.

June.10.2009
Japan appreciates Kuwait's efforts to solidify bilateral relations with it

Japanese Justice Minister Mr.Eisuke Mori on Wednesday voiced appreciation for the State of Kuwait for its unremitting efforts to solidify relations with Japan.
Mr.Eisuke's remarks came during his meeting with Kuwait's Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Oteibi and First Secretary Mohammad Al-Mutairi where the Japanese official also appreciated Kuwait's keenness of steadily maintaining its oil flow to Japan in a bid to stabilize world oil prices and both the minister and ambassador had discussed recent Kuwaiti parliament elections, which produced four women MPs for the first time in Kuwait's modern political history. They also discussed the Kuwaiti-Japanese parliamentarian friendship committee and visits exchanged within it, especially the one paid by a Kuwaiti delegation to Japan lat October 2007.On his part, Ambassador Al-Otaibi urged the Japanese side to visit Kuwait in the near future to observe progress achieved at many levels.Both sides underlined the historic visit paid by His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Sabah to Japan in July 2008, the statement said, noting that 2011 will mark the 50th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations between the two friendly countries.

June.8.2009
Ambassador of Kuwait visited the Director of Middle Eastern and African Affairs Bureau at Ministry of Foreign Affairs Tokyo.

Ambassador of Kuwait, Abdulrahamn Al-Otaibi and First Secretary, Mohammad Al-Mutairi visited the Director of Middle Eastern and African Affairs Bureau, Mr.Toshiro Suzuki at Ministry of Foreign Affairs Tokyo on Monday, June 8th, 2009. The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral relations between the two friendly countries, expanding cooperation in trade, investment and agreements with Kuwait, which has a fast-growing and vibrant economy in the Arab region.

April.26.2009
Ambassador to Japan hosts dinner to honor Kuwaiti Oil Minister

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi hosted a dinner in honor of Kuwaiti Oil Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah on Sunday night.
The minister is visiting Tokyo to attend a meeting of energy leaders of Asia's major oil producing and consuming countries.
The guests at the banquet included Japanese Ambassador to Kuwait Masatoshi Muto, as well as high-level delegations from Kuwait Petroleum Corporation and Kuwait Petroleum International.
Al-Otaibi, who accompanied Sheikh Ahmad at the Third Asian Ministerial Energy Roundtable Meeting, lauded the minister's visit, saying it has contributed to strengthening bilateral relationships.
"Kuwaiti-Japanese cooperation in the oil sector even has a longer history than our diplomatic relationship," the ambassador said, referring to a concession agreement sealed by the Kuwaiti government and Japan's Arabian Oil Company in 1958, three years before the two nations established diplomatic ties in 1961.
The ambassador also said recent development in the bilateral relations is highlighted by the first-ever Kuwaiti-Japanese refinery joint venture in Vietnam, expressing hope that the two countries will further reinforce partnership and strike bilateral agreements in a wider range of fields at the earliest time possible.

April.23.2009
Kuwaiti Oil Minister arrives in Tokyo for Asian energy meeting

Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahamn Al-otaibi and other diplomats from the Kuwait Embassy received Kuwaiti Minister of Oil Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Sabah how arrived in Tokyo Friday to attend a Roundtable Ministerial Meeting of Asian oil producers and consumers due here over the weekend.
Ministers or high-ranking officials in charge of energy resources from 21 countries and three international organizations discussed energy-related issues, which are of special concern to Asian governments. The talks focused on boosting investments which have been sunken amid global recession and falling oil prices and stabilizing the oil market.
The 3rd Asian Ministerial Energy Roundtable Meeting comes when oil prices have fallen sharply after setting a record of USD 147 per barrel last July as the global crisis dampens demand for the fuel, trading in the USD 48 level Wednesday in New York.
High on the agenda gathering include enhanced cooperation between oil exporters and consumers in the Asian region, which accounts for 40 percent of total world energy demand, the ministry said.
The energy leaders are also discussed the ways of possible governmental measures to promote human capital interaction, such as human resource development in energy fields and sharing examples of cutting-edge projects. Participants in the meeting, co-chaired by Japanese Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Toshihiro Nikai and Qatari Oil Minister Abdullah bin Hamad al-Attiyah, also include Bahrain, Iraq, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Turkey, Brunei, Indonesia, China, India, South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, Pakistan, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam.
In addition to Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), representatives of International Energy Agency and International Energy Forum will take part.
Sheikh Ahmad hold talks with Asian oil and energy ministers, as well as representatives of Japanese companies.

April.18.2009
Cherry Blossom Party at Shinjuku Gardens in Tokyo

H.E.Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, Ambassador of the State of Kuwait in Japan participated in “Cherry Blossom Party” on Saturday, April 18, 2009. Prime Minister of Japan, H.E. Mr. Taro Aso hosted the Party and welcomed Ambassador Al-Otaibi. Many selected guests visited Shinjuku Gardens.

April.17.2009
Kuwait partakes in Tokyo's Pakistan donors conference

Kuwait participated in the Pakistan Donors Conference, co-hosted by the Japanese government and the World Bank. Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi had headed Kuwait's delegation to the conference, adding that Kuwait took part in the event as an observer and as a member of the international group supporting the Pakistani government. Al-Otaibi thanked in his address to the conference, the Japanese government's efforts to host such an event aimed at helping the Pakistani government to overcome the global crisis and the problem of terrorism in Pakistan. "Kuwait is keen on creating a more stable and peaceful global community," said the Ambassador, adding that Kuwaiti and Pakistan were always linked by strong ties and mutual interest to develop relations amongst them. The conference's 31 participating states and 18 international agencies and organizations would give Pakistan a sum of USD 5.28 billion within two years to help it face problems of terrorism and the global credits crunch.

April.14.2009

On the 14th of April 2009, H.E Mr.Abdul-Rahman Humood Al-Otaibi, Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Japan, and Mr Faraj Al-Hajeri, the Third Secretary of the Embassy, have met Ms Sadako Ogata, President of Japan International Cooperation Agency JICA, in the presence of Professor Yamada, Executive director of JICA in the Middle East.

During the meeting, HE the Ambassador carried a vision of a future cooperation between the State of Kuwait and the Agency, in the technical and technological fields, as well as training programs, and which will have positive results on the bilateral relations between Japan and Kuwait.

H.E. stressed on the fact that Kuwait has a long history in supporting the development around the world, through the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, whose aid has exceeded the boundaries of the Arab world to reach countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America, and the contribution to the Arab Fund for Development, based in Kuwait. For this reason, although Kuwait has exceeded the rate set by the agency (based on the capita income), it is concerned in creating a framework for technical cooperation and make use of the Agency’s experts to train executives in the scientific and technological fields.

The Japan International Cooperation Agency JICA, which has a variety of activities to support developing countries, has a number of branches in the Arab world. The agency's office in northern Iraq (Erbil) is the most recent branch that has been established recently.

Meanwhile, Ms Ogata commended the efforts made by the State of Kuwait in the humanitarian areas, and that the Agency is very interested in finding ways to establish a joint cooperation between with the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development. Furthermore, Ms Ogata pointed out that the latest collaboration between Kuwait and the Agency was in the year 1998, and that JICA’s operations in the Middle East have been decreasing during the last few years.

At the end, both parties have scheduled a meeting for next week to set up a process for technical cooperation with the State of Kuwait.

April.10.2009
Kuwait's Ambassador hosts a dinner in honor of the Ambassador of the Saudi Arabia.

His Excellency Mr. Abdul-Rahman Al-Otaibi, Ambassador of the State of Kuwait in Japan, hosted a dinner in his official residence in Tokyo to honor His Excellency Mr. Faisal Hassan Trad, the Ambassador of the Saudi Arabia, who is finishing his posting in Japan . 

The reception was attended by the Arab ambassadors accredited to Japan and their family. Ambassador Al-Otaibi praised Ambassador Al-Trad efforts during his 4-year and 8 month's term in Japan and who has contributed to strengthening the relation of  Gulf and Japan as well as it of  Arab and Japan. Ambassador Al-Otaibi wished him good luck and success in his upcoming duties.

April.6.2009

Embassy in Japan participated in the 11th Arab Annual bazaar at Ark Hills in Tokyo, the embassy stated on Monday.
Spouse of Kuwaiti Ambassador Jamila Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi along with wives of Arab ambassadors participated in the charitable event. She was in charge of the Kuwaiti section which showcased Kuwaiti culture, heritage, and craftsmanship.
The bazaar, along with the Arab Products and Food Market, was held within the Arab week activities where Arab embassies displayed items depicting their countries' cultures and traditions.
Al-Otaibi presented Princess Takamado with a commemorative gift after visiting the Kuwaiti pavilion.
She said that Kuwait is keen on participating in the event that is humanitarian-oriented, and noted that the section presented Kuwait's history, and its economical and cultural development. Al-Otaibi hailed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the companies participating in the Kuwaiti section for their cooperation.
This annual charitable event organized by the Association of Arab Ambassadors Wives in Tokyo boosts the exchange of cultures among the people of the world.

February.24.2009 Kuwait Embassy in Tokyo celebrates 48th Nat''l Day, 18th Liberation Day

Kuwait Embassy in Tokyo has held on Tuesday a reception marking the Kuwait's 48th National Day and the 18th Liberation Day, which fall on Wednesday and Thursday respectively.
Dozens of Japanese statesmen, politicians, economists and celebrated media figures attended the reception held at the Imperial Court of Japan with the court's chief of staff attending.
It was also attended by Minister of Justice Eisuke Mori who is also member of the Kuwaiti-Japanese Parliamentary Friendship Association, deputy chairman of Japan's Senate, two former defense ministers, two deputy foreign ministers, and Japan's special envoy to the Middle East Tatsuo Arima as well as a number senior officials of the ministries of foreign affairs, defense and finance.
The attendees congratulated Kuwait Ambassador to Japan Abdul-Rahman Al-Utaibi on the national anniversaries, praising the role being played by the State of Kuwait in the stability, security and economic development of the Middle East.
In his address to the ceremony, Al-Otaibi briefed the attendees on the progress made by Kuwait in the political, economic domains as well as its contributions to the reconstruction and democratization of neighborly Iraq.
He congratulated His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, HH the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Al-Muhammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah as well as the Kuwaiti people and government on this grand national occasion.

April.2.2009

Embassy in Japan held the third Arab-Japanese week festival derived from the Arab Day, assigned by the Arab Ambassadors' Council in Tokyo.
An embassy statement issued Thursday that the council chose Kuwait Embassy to organize the reception and supervise the festival events, held in Mandarin Hotel with the participation of 400 Japanese politicians, economic figures and prominent members of the society, in addition to other diplomats in the country.
The Arab Day in Japan was held last year with great success.
Princess Takamado is the guest of honor in this festival, in addition to Tokyo Governor, and Head of the Arab-Japanese Society.
Chief of the Arab Diplomatic mission in Japan the Qatari Ambassador Riyadh Al-Ansari and Princess Tokamado presented speeches on this occasion, dealing with Arab-Japanese relations and ways to develop them.
The Arab Ambassador's Council prepared a publication including information on each Arab country, and was distributed in the reception.
The week also includes a seminar, art exhibition and musical performance.

March.12.2009

A high-ranking Kuwaiti diplomat has said his country remains keen on safeguarding Iraq's independence and unity and the interest of its people.
Kuwait's ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi said ties with neighboring Iraq have been improving since the country's 2003 liberation by Coalition forces in which Kuwait played a major role by allowing these troops to use its territories to launch combat operations.
Otaibi, who recently hosted a farewell party for his Iraqi counterpart Ghanem Al-Jumaili on ending his tenure here, told KUNA that Kuwait has and is still playing a role in the reconstruction of Iraq.
Citing an example, he said that the Japanese Self-Defense Forces used Kuwaiti bases to conduct operations into Iraq since 2004 until last December.
Highlighting the importance of the visit to Baghdad by Kuwait's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed Al-Sabah, Otaibi said Kuwait is awaiting the naming of an Iraqi ambassador to Kuwait.

March.3.2009

Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi hosted a luncheon on Monday in honor of Kuwaiti international handball referees Jassem Al-Swailem, and Ahmad Al-Mutawa in the presence of the members of the Japan Handball Federation.
The luncheon was held for the referees after running the semi-finals and finals of Japan Handball Association.
Ambassador Al-Otaibi watched the two games at the invitation of deputy chairman of the Japan Handball Federation Noriyuki Ichihara. On the sidelines of the games, Al-Otaibi met with Japanese Olympic Committee President, who praised the Kuwaiti referees.
This participation came upon a memorandum of cooperation between the Kuwaiti and Japanese handball federations, which was signed in the presence of President of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabah during his visit to Japan in October 2008.
Al-Otaibi lauded Kuwaiti-Japanese cooperation, and hoping that bilateral sports ties would be further reinforced and mutual experiences be exchanged.

Kuwaiti Ambassador conveys FM''s letter to Japanese official

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi conveyed a letter of appreciation from Kuwait's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Dr. Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah to Former Japanese Foreign Minister. In the letter addressed to Masahiko Komura, current President of Japan-Kuwait Parliamentary League, Sheikh Dr. Mohammad expressed sincere gratitude for the efforts Komura has made during his tenure as Foreign Minster, and his continued efforts as a head of Japan-Kuwait Parliamentary League to promote the diplomatic, political, and economic relations between the two countries, according to the embassy. At his meeting with Komura, the ambassador reaffirmed "grand meanings" of friendship and close relationship tying the two countries for more than 40 years. Al-Otaibi also expressed the high esteem that the Kuwaiti leadership and the government have for Japan "as a government and people." While emphasizing that the Japanese government attaches importance to the bilateral relations with Kuwait, Komura asserted Japan's determination to further strengthen all fields of cooperation between the two countries, and Al-Otaibi responded that he shares the same view. Al-Otaibi and Komura also exchanged opinions about the current economic situation in Japan, the global financial and economic crisis, as well as Japan's next general elections, and what results and consequences can be expected from these elections. The officials also discussed the results of the American Presidential elections, which brought Barack Obama as the 44th President, and the future of US-Japanese relations. Komura affirmed that the bilateral relations and cooperation between US and Japan in all its domains will not go backwards regardless of who will win in the next Japanese general elections.

Kuwaiti, GCC ambassadors experience Japan''s next-generation energy

ambassadors from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, including Kuwaiti Ambassador Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi, have visited an energy park featuring next-generation energy facilities in Wakayama Prefecture, western Japan, to observe Japan's cutting-edge technology.
At the invitation of Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and Wakayama prefectural government, Al-Otaibi and other envoys from the six Gulf countries have experienced a wide variety of new energy, such as wind-powered generator, solar photovoltaic energy system, biomass facilities at "Hidaka Port New-Energy Park" in Gobo City, some 460 km southwest of Tokyo, Kuwaiti Embassy said Wednesday.
Equipped with a research and experience-based park where visitors can tour the latest demonstration research facilities for new energies, the site is considered Japan's most developed Next-Generation Energy Park.
According to the ministry, there are 13 government-funded Next-Generation Energy Park projects throughout the country, which aim to increase opportunities for the general public to have first-hand experience of next-generation energy.
Together with local students, the delegates also planted six memorial trees in the park.
While in the region, ambassadors also held talks with Japanese Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Toshihiro Nikai, in which the minister expressed hope that their visit would boost exchanges between Arab nations and Japan, as well as Wakayama Prefecture.
"I believe your visit helps people in the world understand Japan's engagement with next-generation energy," Nikai told ambassadors.

Kuwaiti ambassador, Japan''s university agree to more ties

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi and head of Waseda University, one of the most prestigious private universities in Japan, shared the view Wednesday on the need to promote educational and scientific cooperation between Kuwaiti universities and Waseda.
Al-Otaibi and Professor Katsuhiko Shirai, the President of Waseda University, also expressed hope that Kuwaiti universities and Waseda will seal agreements on stepping up such relations in the near future, which helps further promote ties between Japan and Kuwait, both as governments and people.
The ambassador paid an official visit to Waseda University in Tokyo in the framework of a program the Kuwait embassy is promoting academic relations between Kuwaiti and Japanese universities.
During his meeting with Shirai, the ambassador emphasized that, since its modernization and reconstruction process following Liberation in 1991, Kuwait has always capitalized on education and science promotion, especially through cooperation with countries globally accredited in these vital fields.
He also stressed the importance of promoting educational and scientific cooperation with the Japanese side, saying, "The Kuwaiti leadership is willing to benefit from the Japanese scientific experience through well-planned programs." While praising Al-Otaibi for his initiative, Shirai stressed that Waseda welcomes Kuwaiti students, researchers, professors and academicians in order to further strengthen educational and scientific relations, especially in the fields of greatest interest to both Japan and Kuwait.
Like Meiji University, which recently showed an interest in stepping up educational and scientific relations with its Kuwaiti universities, Shirai said Waseda University will also spare no effort to boost such ties with Kuwaiti universities.
"We place priority in boosting ties with the Middle East," Shirai told Al-Otaibi, adding that his university has so far established relations with such countries as sudi Arabia, Egypt and Turkey.
In line with "student global mobility" policy, Waseda University has a large international cooperative network that will be extended to cover Kuwait's universities. It has established several schools, especially in fields of information technology (IT), telecommunications, engineering, where instruction and research are conducted in English, in case Japanese language may be a hurdle.
Expressing his appreciation for efforts exerted by Waseda, Al-Otaibi assured Shirai that he will address top officials in charge of high education in Kuwait to take advantage of the facilities and means provided by Waseda and the other Japanese universities in order to benefit from the Japanese scientific and educational experience.
A growing number of Japanese universities have been heading towards internationalizing their study and research efforts through cooperative networking with universities around the world.

Japan''s university seeks ties with Kuwaiti schools -- ambassador Education

Meiji University, one of Japan's oldest and prominent private universities, showed strong interest in stepping up educational and scientific relations with Kuwaiti universities, head of the school said.
Professor Hiromi Naya, the President of Meiji University, made remarks during his meeting with Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi, .
"Meiji University intends to give more special care to cooperation with Kuwaiti universities and to make all efforts possible so that we will see fruitful scientific results and more effective mutually cultural understanding between both the academic and popular circles in Japan and Kuwait," President Naya was quoted as telling Al-Otaibi.
Al-Otaibi paid an official visit to Meiji University in Tokyo in the framework of a program the Kuwait embassy is promoting academic relations between Kuwaiti and Japanese universities, according to the embassy.
While praising Al-Otaibi for his initiative, Naya and other professors stressed the need of creating the sustainable and appropriate ways to expand educational and scientific cooperation between Kuwaiti and Japanese universities, expressing hope that authorities of both countries will take the lead in initiating moves.
Meiji University has been studying the possibility of joining hands with foreign universities, with focusing on the Middle East region, Naya explained.
On his part, Kuwait's top envoy here affirmed that his country is making its target to benefit from the globally recognized Japanese university's experience more effectively in both quantitative and qualitative terms.
"Our desire and orientation toward further promoting such ties with Japan are stronger than ever before," Al-Otaibi told Naya.
"The modernizing reconstruction process Kuwait has embarked on since Liberation in 1991 has always capitalized on education and science promotion, especially through cooperation with countries globally accredited in these vital fields," the ambassador stressed.
According to the embassy, the ambassador plans more visits to other prominent Japanese universities.
Established in 1881,the university has so far cultivated cooperation relations with such Asian countries as Malaysia and Indonesia.
A growing number of Japanese universities have been heading towards internationalizing their study and research efforts through cooperative networking with universities around the world.

Kuwaiti diplomat, Japan''s local leaders vow stronger economic ties

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi and Japanese local economy and political leadership have agreed to work toward further strengthening of economic cooperation between the two countries, the embassy said Tuesday.
At the 16th Nagoya International Exchange Assembly held in the central city of Nagoya, also known as "Toyota City," Al-Otaibi held talks with Aichi Prefecture Governor Masaaki Kanda, Nagoya City Mayor Takehisa Matsubara, as well as other local key figures.
During the talks, the ambassador affirmed Kuwait's readiness to further develop economic cooperation with both Japanese public and private sectors. In response, Japanese officials expressed gratitude for his attendance at the international meeting and their wish to see more Kuwaiti investment involvement in the Japanese economic structure.
"The Nagoya meeting was a real opportunity for further cooperative networking between Kuwaiti diplomatic mission and the Japanese local economy and political leadership," Al-Otaibi noted after the gathering, which brought together ambassadors and diplomats of many countries.
The meeting in Nagoya, Japan's fourth-biggest city, was organized by Aichi Prefecture and Nagoya city authorities in order to provide envoys to Japan with a new opportunity to promote exchange and create chances of closer mutual understanding and cooperation with local political and business leaders.

Japanese students make a study tour to Kuwaiti Embassy

The Kuwaiti embassy in Tokyo has welcomed a fresh group of junior high school students for their study tour, showing its popularity among Japanese youngsters never fades away.
At their talks with Haytham Al-Subih, a diplomat of the embassy, the students from Ageo West Junior High School in Saitama Prefecture, about 30 km northwest of Tokyo, expressed a deep interest in Al-Subih's views and impressions on Japan, his favorite Japanese food, and opinions on the local people.
They were also particularly keen to learn about the daily life of Kuwaitis and the types of issues which Kuwait faces now.
One student asked specifically about the 412-meter-high Al-Hamra Tower, Kuwait's most modernized skyscraper which is due to open in the first quarter of next year.
Traditional Kuwaiti sweets full of Arabic seasonings and spices, which were served during the briefing, also delighted the teenage visitors.
In conclusion of the study session, the students gave an introduction to their school and presented a handmade token to the diplomat. They also received gifts prepared by the embassy and took a group photo with Al-Subih before leaving the site.
This educational and cultural exchange between the Japanese students and the Kuwaiti embassy has become a yearly tradition, according to the embassy.
"Headed by Ambassador Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi, we make use of such an exchange as one of the means to help the Japanese people gain more understanding of Kuwait.

Kuwaiti Embassy in Tokyo strives to lure Japanese investors

In the framework of its seminars, workshops, and open days for introducing and promoting opportunities in Kuwait here, Japan's third-biggest investment bank Nikko Citigroup Ltd. has invited the Kuwaiti Embassy to give a seminar on the reality and prospects of investment in Kuwait.
"The Nikko Citigroup, a Japanese arm of the US-based Citigroup, hosted the seminar at its Tokyo headquarters on Tuesday with a view to promoting Kuwait for the firm's Japanese institutional investors who are said to have an increasing interest in the stock markets in the Gulf Countries Council (GCC) region," the embassy said in a statement to KUNA.
Ahead of the seminar, Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi and Sim S. Lim, President and CEO of the group, discussed the current Japanese economic situation and prospects of investment in Kuwait, according to the embassy.
Al-Otaibi and Lim also exchanged views on the current global financial crisis, its short-term and long-term consequences, and the possible solutions to deal with challenges.
While touching on the bilateral relationship, the ambassador explained how Kuwait is ready to receive and maintain Japanese investors' prospective ventures. "Our government provides foreign investors with a favorable investment climate," he said and underscored the convenience of the legal framework and economic facilities in Kuwait.
Emphasizing the government's enactment of new investment laws, especially the so-called tax exemption rules "Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with respect to Taxes on Income," Al-Otaibi insisted, "This is meant mainly to encourage overseas investors to invest in Kuwait and contribute to the country's development process." At the seminar, the embassy staff gave a detailed presentation under the title of "Kuwait -- A 21st Century Haven for Sustainable DM-Level Investment: Towards a Two-way Sustainable Benefit-Focused Partnership," with updated facts and figures on the Kuwaiti economy.
The subjects also covered other basic information about the country's history, society, culture, education, media, and foreign relations with Japan and the rest of the world.
At the end of the presentation, the audience had a series of questions, most of which were answered by the ambassador himself.
"The seminar reached its end in success, as was assured by the audience who expressed their satisfaction and wished to have their prospective investment ventures in Kuwait become a reality," the embassy said, expressing readiness to offer assistance to any Japanese investors seeking a foothold in the Kuwaiti economic house.

Kuwaiti ambassador hosts Iftar for GCC mission, Islamic authorities in Japan

Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Al-Otaibi held an "Iftar" banquet to mark the occasion of the Holy month of Ramadan, where ambassadors of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries were invited, the embassy said in a statement on Thursday.
Imam of Tokyo's mosque and Muslim scholars from the Arabic Islamic Institute, as well as embassy staff also attended.
  Al-Otaibi said such meetings and mutual visits help promote bonding and increase fraternity, especially during the Holy month of Ramadan, adding adding that an atmosphere of brotherhood and Ramadan spirituality prevailed over the fast-breaking meal.

Kuwait, Japan issue joint statement at conclusion of Kuwaiti PM''s visit

Upon an invitation of Japanese Premier Yasuo Fukuda, HH the Prime Minister of Kuwait Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammed Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah paid an official visit to Japan accompanied by a high-level delegation on July 26-29, 2008.
His Majesty the Emperor of Japan received HH Sheikh Nasser Al-Sabah in Imperial Audience.
Also formal discussions were held between Japan and the State of Kuwait, during which Premier Yasuo chaired the Japanese side, while HH Sheikh Nasser Al-Sabah chaired the Kuwaiti side. The two sides expressed deep satisfaction with the outstanding development in the recent Japanese-Kuwaiti relations, and confirmed their determination to promote these prosperous relations, noting the importance of the visit of HH Sheikh Nasser to Japan, terming it as "a historic opportunity to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries." The two sides expressed their expectations for the success of the coming year of 2011, the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, in which mutual visits by prominent figures of the two countries, and a variety of commemorative events encompassing wide-ranging areas such as politics, economy, culture, science, tourism and student exchanges will take place, in order to promote mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples.
The two sides expressed their satisfaction with the development in the bilateral relations between them in various fields, especially commercial and economic relations, and commended the role played by the Kuwaiti-Japanese Businessmen Committee. The two sides also welcomed the signing of the Memorandum on establishing a Joint Committee between the two governments to further activate cooperation in all fields, particularly economic and commercial ones.
The two sides welcomed the signing of a Memorandum between the Ministries of Foreign Affaires in the two countries for political consultations.
The two sides reiterated common view that stability of world oil market is a cornerstone for the sound and sustainable growth of world economy. In this regard, the two sides shared the view that the current oil price level is unprecedented, and it is against the interest of both oil consuming and producing countries. The Japanese side also expressed its appreciation for the significant role of Kuwait as a major oil producing and exporting country, and welcomed the Kuwaiti initiative to increase its oil production within the first half of next year. The Kuwaiti side expressed its commitment to assure stable oil supplies to Japan. Both sides reaffirmed their desire to strengthen technical cooperation in the upstream and other oil sectors, and decided to start a joint research project concerning the Co2-enhanced oil recovery as a first step.
The two sides confirmed the importance of promoting renewable energy and energy conservation in order to secure stable energy supply, protecting natural environment, as well as achieving economic growth. From this standpoint, the two sides decided to strengthen bilateral cooperation on the basis of Japan's long-term experiences, and its advanced technology in the fields of renewable energy, the conservation of energy and water, energy management and alternative energy sources. In this regard, the two sides welcomed the conclusion of a MOU between the Ministry of Electricity and Water of Kuwait and Toyota Tsusho Corporation on solar-integrated combined cycle, and expressed intention to render continuous support for the execution of the project. They also expressed willingness to support such renewable energy and energy conservation projects as mentioned in the Joint Statement issued by the two Governments in May 2007.
The two sides addressed the negotiations regarding the Convention of the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with respect to Taxes on Income, and expressed intention to make efforts towards concluding the convention at the earliest time. They also confirmed the importance of the negotiations between Japan and the GCC regarding the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and expressed determination to reach an agreement in principle as soon as possible. The Kuwaiti side expressed desire to start the negotiations for an agreement on the promotion and mutual protection of investments between the two countries.
The Kuwaiti side expressed its appreciation for the continued bilateral cooperation between the two countries in the field of environmental projects that began with the Kuwait-Japan Cooperation on Environmental Issues and Technology Transfer in December 2002, of which achievements were the Environmental Rehabilitation of Kuwait Bay, the Modernization of Oil Industry and the Human Resources Development Program. The Kuwaiti side also expressed its appreciation for the master plan of the Environment Protection Policy of the State of Kuwait in November 2004. The two sides expressed appreciation for the achievement of experimental introduction of the Environmental Educational Program; KIDS ISO 14000, and their willingness to expand and support this program in Kuwait in a consistent manner.
The Kuwaiti side commended the initiative of Japan shown at the G-8 Hokkido Toyako Summit meeting, and the fourth international conference of Tokyo on the African development (Ticad IV), while the Japanese side expressed appreciation for the active Kuwaiti assistance towards the development of countries, including Africa through KFAED and the Red Crescent Society.
The Kuwaiti side expressed its appreciation for Japan's initiative in "The dialogue of cultures between Japan and the Islamic world", so as to deepen the mutual understanding. The Japanese side also expressed its appreciation for the Kuwaiti intent to host the 7th seminar regarding the dialogue.
The two sides expressed their wholehearted satisfaction with the ongoing educational cooperation and personal exchanges between the two countries, especially the training programs for Kuwaiti educationists offered by the Government of Japan, the opening of a Japanese Language course at Kuwait University's Center for Community Service and Continued Education and the round-table for returned Kuwaiti students from Japan hosted by the Embassy of Japan in the State of Kuwait. Both sides decided to study means to further expand such cooperation in the field of education.
The Kuwaiti side appreciated the outcome of the G-8 Hokkido Toyako Summit and major economies meeting, and the Japanese Initiative" cool Earth 50" and "cool Earth promotion program". The two sides shared the view that Japan and Kuwait will be actively engaged in a process to establish an effective framework beyond 2012, in which all major economies participate in a responsible way, in accordance with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities. Both sides recognized that among others, sectored approach is a useful tool for reducing global green house gas emissions. The Japanese side welcomed the Kuwaiti pledge of USD 150 Million for climate change, including Carbon capture and storage announced at OPEC Riyadh Summit in November 2007.
Both sides emphasized the great significance of the stability in the Middle East to the world as a whole. They reaffirmed as well their close cooperation for the stability and prosperity of the region, giving a great importance to the peace process in the Middle East, the reconstruction of Iraq and the war against terrorism.
The two sides reviewed the current situation in Iraq and welcomed the positive progress of the achieved breakthrough in the security situation in Iraq. They also stressed the importance of ac

Kuwait embassy welcomes Japanese students anew

The Kuwaiti embassy in Tokyo has welcomed a fresh group of local junior high school students for their study tour, in a reflection of its popularity among Japanese young visitors.
While learning about bilateral relations and historical information about Kuwait, the 11 students from Tokyo's Akiruno Municipal Mido Junior High School have shown keen interest in daily student life of their Kuwaiti counterparts.
"We are particularly amazed that many Japanese animation programs are on-air by the Kuwaiti television, and electronic games from Japan's Nintendo and Sony enjoy great popularity among Kuwaiti youths," the statement quoted a leading member of the group as saying during the tour according to the embassy statement that added that they seemed pleased to find that Kuwaiti youngsters share similar interests with them.
Traditional Kuwaiti sweets served during the briefing also delighted the teenage visitors. Those with special spices drew the boys in particular.
Joined by Second Secretary Mohammad Al-Mutairi at the embassy, the students took pictures after wearing Kuwaiti traditional costumes at the end of the study tour.
Situated in the heart of Tokyo with an elegantly designed building, the Kuwaiti embassy wins a good reputation in Japanese schools by taking a cooperative stance toward study tour and receives a steady flow of young visitors, including those from distant places. 

Kuwait''s embassy in Tokyo celebrates National Day

The Kuwaiti Embassy in Tokyo held a large reception Thursday evening on the occasion of Kuwait's 47th National Day, bringing more than 500 guests including former Japanese Defense Minister Fumio Kyuma and Yuriko Koike. High-ranking officials, political, military and parliamentary figures, businessmen, academics and diplomats as well as representatives of the Japan-Kuwait Society also attended the ceremony.
  Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdul Rahman Al-Otaibi congratulated on this occasion His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah and the Kuwaiti people.
Pointing out that amicable bilateral relations started economic exchanges in the 1950s, the ambassador stressed the two geographically distant countries became very close in terms of trade and economy, saying, "Over the years natural resources in our region became indispensable for the Japanese economy, while Japanese products became an indispensable part of our lifestyle." "Soon our relations started to exceed the pattern of merely trading and headed towards truly special relations, due to the unique roles that Kuwait and Japan developed for themselves," the ambassador noted. "Japan became a positive leader on the world stage after the World War II, and Kuwait has been a reliable element of stability and moderation of the Middle East. "Kuwait used its rich resources not only for its own advancement but also to support the economic and social development of other countries around the world," he said, adding that the two countries share a view of the world that go beyond region, religion, or race. The friendly relations between Kuwait and Japan have been expressed through important visits by top level leaders of the two countries, the ambassador underlined.
Last year, former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe made the first visit by a Japanese leader to Kuwait, where he met with H.H. the Amir and visited the Japanese forces based in Kuwait. "I was moved by the warmth that surrounded the talks between the two countries and their commitment to further enhance relations, which was expressed by Premier Abe's wish for establishing "strategic multilayered relations" between the two countries that go beyond trade and enhance exchange and mutual understanding in the scientific, academic, cultural and artistic fields," Al-Otaibi said.
Given that Kuwait has lowered tax on foreign companies to 15 percent and other economic policies which Kuwait has taken with the aim of becoming a regional financial center, he welcomed Japanese firms and businesspersons taking the initiative to pioneer foreign investments under the new circumstances in his country.
The ceremony was also attended by Kuwait's First Secretary Khaled Al-Mutairi and Second Secretary Mohammad Al-Mutairi. During the ceremony, the embassy held an exhibition displaying Kuwaiti heritage and culture such as traditional handicrafts and paintings, and distributed the latest issue of Japan-Kuwait Society's newsletters to guests. 

Kuwaiti embassy in Tokyo becomes popular spot for Japanese students

Situated in the heart of Tokyo and elegantly designed, the Kuwaiti embassy building in Tokyo gains high reputation in Japanese schools by taking a cooperative stance toward study tour and receiving a steady flow of young visitors, including those from distant regions.
Two groups of Japanese junior high school students made study tours to the building of the Kuwaiti diplomatic mission to deepen understanding of bilateral relations and get a sense about the Kuwaiti-Japanese cultural interaction, the embassy said Wednesday.
Joined by Second Secretary Mohammad Al-Mutairi at the embassy, the students from Seki City in Gifu Prefecture, about 430 kilometers west of Tokyo, learned historical and geographical information about Kuwait.
The students showed surprise when they found that Japanese animated cartoons are on-air in Kuwait and draws a lot of attention there.
Reflecting increasing awareness of environment issues in both countries, one student asked how the Kuwaiti government approaches to environmental problems.
They also explained that Seki City is well-known for producing Japanese samurai traditional swords, and tried wearing both male and female traditional Kuwaiti costumes. Last week, the embassy also welcomed junior high school students from Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture, some 720 km west of Tokyo.
The teenagers had fruitful discussions with Al-Mutairi on such issues as Kuwaiti students' life, social life and bilateral relations.
They also presented gifts for the diplomat after trying Kuwait's traditional dresses.

December 25 2008 Japan PM thanks Kuwait for active role, cooperation in Iraqi mission

Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso and other leaders have thanked the Kuwaiti leadership and people for their constructive role and cooperation with Japan in executing its humanitarian mission in Iraq since 2004.
In their speeches at a welcome-home ceremony on Wednesday in Komaki Air Base, central Japan, to mark completion of the Air Self-Defense Force's (ASDF) nearly five-year noncombat airlift mission, Aso and Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada expressed gratitude for Kuwait, the embassy told Kuwait News Agency .
Kuwaiti Charge d'Affaires Khalid Al-Mutairi attended the ceremony as a main guest, along with his Iraqi and American counterparts.
In his talks with Al-Mutairi before the celebration, Foreign Minister Hirofumi Nakasone also extended his gratitude for all the strategic cooperation and hospitality Kuwait had extended to Japanese troops who had based in Kuwait, according to the embassy.
Since March 2004, about 200 ASDF personnel and three C-130 transport planes had been stationed at Ali Al-Salem Air Base and engaged in transporting UN personnel and supplies to Iraq's airports.
On his part, Al-Mutairi conveyed to Nakasone the Kuwaiti leadership's appreciation and satisfaction with the role and efforts Japan had made to help Iraq repave its way toward democracy and progress.
Other key officials also conveyed the same message to Al-Mutairi directly during the ceremony.
Upon welcoming returning troops, Al-Mutairi expressed Kuwait's pleasure to have received them on its soil, while soldiers showed their gratitude for the hospitality Kuwait had provided them with.
About 230 ASDF personnel and family members gathered for Wednesday's event, which was also attended by former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi and a number of Japanese civil, parliamentary and military officials.
Meantime, Aso and Hamada reaffirmed Japan's continued support to Iraq even after the withdrawal of its forces through economic, political and technical channels, saying, "We will further promote our efforts in cooperation with UN and the international community so that peace, stability, and progress become a reality in Iraq and the whole Middle East region." The air unit has returned from Kuwait since last week after ending its mission on December 12. Some 130 troops will remain in Kuwait for a backlog, and the withdrawal is expected to be completed by the end of March.
The Japanese government ordered the ASDF to pull out of the region last month, citing the improved security situation there. During its deployment, the ASDF had transported around 673 tons of materials and about 46,500 personnel in 821 separate airlifts without a single accident.