His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Amir of Kuwait, on Wednesday urged greater Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) investments in the United States and proposed the establishment of a Gulf-US cultural and educational forum. Speaking at the US-Gulf Summit in Riyadh, he also expressed hope that the summit would act as a platform to address pressing regional challenges.
Addressing the gathering, Sheikh Meshal thanked Saudi Arabia’s King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their hospitality and expressed gratitude to US President Donald Trump for his continued commitment to Gulf relations.
“Our economic partnership with the United States must go beyond traditional sectors,” Sheikh Meshal said.
He highlighted priorities such as smart infrastructure, innovation, SME support and fair trade. Sheikh Meshal also emphasised that the economic foundation of GCC-US ties should be expanded through joint initiatives and deeper investment collaboration.
Reflecting on historical ties, the Amir recalled America’s role in leading the coalition to liberate Kuwait in 1990, calling it a defining moment in GCC-US relations. He underlined Kuwait’s ongoing commitment to work through the GCC to pursue shared regional goals in partnership with Washington.
He also proposed the creation of a dedicated Gulf-American forum focused on cultural and educational exchange.
“Such a forum would promote scientific research, empower youth and foster values of openness, tolerance, and civic responsibility,” Amir said.
Commenting on regional issues, Sheikh Meshal welcomed President Trump’s decision to lift certain sanctions on Syria and called for international efforts to ensure Syria’s sovereignty and stability. He also praised Oman’s mediation in achieving a ceasefire in Yemen and highlighted the importance of safeguarding maritime navigation.
The Amir further applauded US diplomatic efforts to defuse tensions globally, including between India and Pakistan and in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Concluding his remarks, Sheikh Meshal emphasised that regional security is a shared responsibility, with the US-GCC partnership forming a cornerstone for future stability and cooperation. He expressed hope that the summit would serve as a step toward a balanced and rules-based regional order.
The summit, hosted in Riyadh, brought together leaders from GCC nations and the United States to reaffirm strategic ties amid a shifting global landscape.