Karen Sasahara, United States Ambassador to Kuwait

KUWAIT CITY, Oct 24: US Ambassador to Kuwait Karen Sasahara on Wednesday praised the “deep-rooted relations” between the two countries, reaffirming her country’s commitment to Kuwait’s security and sovereignty. His remarks were made during a celebration at the US Embassy marking the 248th anniversary of US Independence Day, attended by Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah Al-Yahya, senior officials, dignitaries and heads of diplomatic missions in Kuwait.

Ambassador Sasahara stressed that bilateral relations between the United States and Kuwait are “strong and deep-rooted,” and assured that her country will continue to be a strategic partner in various areas, including security. She noted that security ties between the two nations have been “tested during the wars”, specifically referring to the liberation of Kuwait from the Iraqi invasion in 1991.

Regarding cultural relations, Ambassador Sasahara noted that thousands of Kuwaiti citizens have graduated from American universities and returned to contribute to the development of their country. She praised the media efforts of Dr. Fatima Al-Salem, Director General of Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), who holds a doctorate in media from Indiana University. The ambassador praised KUNA’s initiatives to combat rumors and disinformation through the KUNA Observatory, as well as its adaptation to modern technologies and artificial intelligence.

Ambassador Sasahara also mentioned that thousands of Kuwaiti citizens travel to the United States every year for trade and investment purposes, to benefit from advances in medical care, and for tourism.

Addressing regional developments, particularly in Gaza and Lebanon, she said “diplomacy is the only way to immediately end the violence and help those most affected return home, rebuild and live in peace and dignity. She stressed the importance of taking “irreversible steps” to achieve a secure and stable State of Palestine and expressed hope for worldwide peace to reduce bloodshed, especially among the innocent, in the context of current tensions in the Middle East.

The ambassador noted that 2024 will see a significant number of elections around the world, with more than 100 countries holding democratic elections, stressing that “every person has a role or a voice in the renaissance and development of their country.” (KUNA)