Latest news with #KarenSasahara
Arab Times
09-07-2025
- Politics
- Arab Times
‘Kuwait, US durable strategic partners'
KUWAIT CITY, July 9: American Ambassador to Kuwait Karen Sasahara has affirmed the strength of American-Kuwaiti relations, stressing that Kuwait is a longstanding strategic partner of the United States, and that cooperation, communication, and coordination take place daily at the military and civilian levels. Sasahara made the statement in a meeting with journalists, during which she pointed out the presence of the NATO Center in Kuwait since 2017 -- a manifestation of the high level of cooperation between the two countries. She said the launching of the Iranian missile at the American Al-Udeid air base in Qatar is a clear example of close coordination, indicating that 'we, as partners, need to know what is happening.' She emphasized that Iran is not far away, adding that communication is ongoing with the Kuwaiti military and civilian leaders to exchange information and assess the situation. She confirmed that the US military presence in Kuwait is a strategic decision, which reflects the level of trust and partnership between the two countries. She stated that 'the Gulf states are currently focusing on economic growth and trade, not conflict. We also believe in this: partnership for prosperity, not confrontation.' Regarding the American position on tension in the region, she asserted, 'We do not want this tension to escalate. The recent attacks were worrying, but the Gulf response was unified and swift. This is encouraging. No one wants to be drawn into conflict; being calm is important for everyone.' She also underscored the importance of promoting dialogue in the region, praising the Arab countries' support for Syria and Lebanon. She emphasized that dialogue through the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation is essential to achieving stability. Asked about the balance between American support for Israel and Washington's commitment to maintain regional stability and protect human rights, she disclosed 'we do not hide our support for Israel, but at the same time, we believe in the importance of balance between interests and principles. Any conflict in the region threatens security and stability, and negatively impacts trade and human rights. That is why we support dialogue and cooperation, instead of escalation.' On her assessment of US President Donald Trump's efforts regarding the ceasefire in Gaza and its chances of success, Sasahara stated, 'The president is very focused on this issue and is following it up himself. The goal is a ceasefire because it is the right path. The goal is not only economic gains, but also fulfilling humanitarian pledges.' Regarding the regional situation, she warned that the current situation cannot tolerate further surprises, as all parties need national security. She indicated that the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation can play a role in facilitating regional dialogue. She cited the decision of the United States to lift sanctions on Syria to provide food and medicines, as well as the visit of the new Lebanese president to Kuwait, describing them as positive indicators. Regarding the arrival of the new ambassador, she explained there is a timetable for nominations and the new candidate is still in Washington, indicating the arrival will be announced at the appropriate time through official channels. She said the timetable for appointing ambassadors is subject to internal considerations in the United States and is affected by the summer holidays and the progress of congressional sessions. She expressed her admiration for the media diversity in Kuwait; affirming that it is good to have such a large number of newspapers in a small country like Kuwait as it reflects a rich diversity of opinions. She praised the Kuwaiti press, disclosing that based on her personal experience, newspapers here hide nothing and enable readers to know what is really going on. She revealed that she still relies on traditional print media as a primary source of information, and that it is more credible and transparent than social media. Asked about some students being affected by their freedom of expression on social media and being denied entry visas due to their views on the Gaza War, she said 'I completely understand the concerns, but visa issuance is subject to criteria set by the US administration, which is the decision-maker in this regard. Expressing an opinion is not a crime, but the procedures are based on national immigration policies. We have to balance opening legitimate travel with national security priorities. We want students to come to study, but we do not want people who have no good intentions for our country. When you fill out a visa application and say you are going to study, that should be your goal. We are committed to welcoming students, while continuing to adapt our visa criteria to changing circumstances. We resumed the F, M and J visa interviews last week. We are now operating normally. There are some additional requirements in the process and we have been clear about them from the beginning.'
Kuwait Times
08-07-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
US ambassador reaffirms ‘ironclad' ties with Kuwait
Envoy highlights strategic, economic and educational cooperation KUWAIT: The US Ambassador to Kuwait, Karen Sasahara, reaffirmed the longstanding strategic partnership between the United States and Kuwait. During a press roundtable, Ambassador reaffirmed the US-Kuwaiti relationship as 'ironclad' and deeply rooted in history, stating, 'Our relationship goes back many decades, well before the invasion or liberation. Five generations, working on number six, have studied in the US.' She highlighted Kuwait's significant role within the alliance framework, noting that a NATO center has operated in Kuwait since 2017, reinforcing bilateral cooperation in regional security and defense. She added, 'Kuwait became a strategic non-NATO ally in 2004, and last September, His Highness the Crown Prince visited New York to commemorate the 20th anniversary of this milestone. The event was highly successful, reflecting the strength and depth of the strategic relationship and playing a key role in fostering stability and collective security in the Gulf region.' She added that the bilateral relationship is not limited to military cooperation only, adding, 'It spans healthcare, technology, IT, and robust commercial exchange.' The Ambassador emphasized Kuwait's importance in the regional security architecture, referencing last week's close coordination during missile threats, which prompted intense diplomatic and military engagement. She added, 'Iran is not far away. We stayed in close contact with Kuwait's civilian and military leadership. Our partnership required a joint understanding of the risks.' Ambassador Sasahara praised the Gulf Cooperation Council's (GCC) unity in responding to the threats, saying, 'The GCC came together quickly. All the foreign ministers went to Doha and issued a unified statement. That was impressive.' She stated that threats from regional actors like Iran endanger regional stability, stressing the destabilizing impact of conflict. The Ambassador highlighted the regional preference for 'Commerce over conflict,' a mantra often echoed by President Donald Trump. 'Conflict is bad for business, bad for stability, and bad for peace. Every Gulf nation is more interested in economic development than warfare.' On potential regional confidence-building measures, the Ambassador was cautiously optimistic. 'There are good mechanisms, the GCC, the Arab League, and the OIC. Syria's reintegration is one example of a confidence-building measure,' she explained. She noted President Trump's lifting of sanctions on Syria to allow humanitarian aid, and recent regional support for Syria's recovery, indicating, 'If regional actors continue talking and meeting, like Lebanon's new President Joseph Aoun's visit, that's a good sign.' Addressing the issue of student visa policies in light of recent legislation and delays, the Ambassador acknowledged the difficulties students have faced, reaffirming the US policy objective, explaining, 'We are balancing legitimate international travel with national security priorities.' The Ambassador confirmed that the issuance of F, M, and J visas had resumed last week and emphasized that the process is still evolving. 'There are new processing requirements, but we have been transparent. We're committed to welcoming students,' she said. Responding to claims that some students were denied visas due to pro-Palestinian content on social media, the Ambassador explained, 'This is the administration's decision on the criteria. Students are expected to go to the US for education, as stated in their application.' Concerning President Trump's recent announcement of a potential Gaza ceasefire, the Ambassador confirmed the administration's focus, stating, 'The President is extremely engaged. Commerce instead of conflict, it's not just about making money. It's about the hostages, Hamas' commitments, and regional security. We have a special envoy, Steve Witkoff, who has been actively engaged and deeply focused on this issue. So now, we're watching closely to see what the special envoy does and how the various parties respond.' In response to her experience in Kuwait during her tenure, she highlighted Kuwait's uniqueness, saying 'I have enjoyed the people, the experiences, and the intellectual exchange. We see each other constantly at national days and diplomatic events,' noting that Kuwait's multicultural fabric, including large expatriate communities, offered deep insights into the country's diversity.
Kuwait Times
28-05-2025
- Politics
- Kuwait Times
US Embassy marks Memorial Day, hails US-Kuwait relations
KUWAIT: The US Embassy in Kuwait, in partnership with the American Business Council – Kuwait (ABCK), marked Memorial Day on Monday, with an evening that honored the sacrifices of US service members and celebrated the enduring US-Kuwait partnership. In her remarks, the US Ambassador to Kuwait Karen Sasahara paid tribute to American service members who gave their lives in defense of freedom, while also reaffirming the enduring strength of the US-Kuwait alliance. 'Our first duty is to remember their sacrifice, and our second is to live up to it — by keeping our country secure, strong and worthy of their trust,' she stated. The remarks highlighted the shared history between the US and Kuwait, particularly during the 1990 Gulf War when both nations' forces fought side by side to liberate Kuwait. The ambassador described this moment as the foundation of a partnership that continues to thrive through military cooperation, economic investment, and cultural exchange. Reaffirming America's commitment to a stable and secure Gulf, Sasahara praised Kuwait's leadership in hosting US forces, investing in American innovation and fostering educational and humanitarian collaboration. 'Our remembrance must guide action,' she said, urging deeper cooperation in missile defense, expanded bilateral trade and continued youth exchanges to preserve the legacy of freedom. Gunnery Sergeant Victor Buendia posted the colors to open the ceremony. US Air Force Colonel Matthew Johnson then offered brief remarks, reflecting on Memorial Day's significance and reaffirming the two nations' shared commitment to regional security and peace. The program featured a screening of an Iraq War documentary that presented first-hand accounts from US, coalition and Kuwaiti figures, underscoring three decades of close cooperation and the sacrifices made by service members stationed in Kuwait and the wider region. Senior Kuwaiti officials, Chief of Mission personnel and members of the ABCK Founder's Club attended the reception, reaffirming the broad scope of US-Kuwait ties, including defense, education, commercial, trade and cultural collaboration.
Arab Times
27-05-2025
- Politics
- Arab Times
US Embassy highlights enduring Kuwait alliance
KUWAIT CITY, May 27: The United States Embassy in Kuwait on Tuesday reaffirmed the robust strategic ties between the two countries and their shared commitment to regional security and stability. In a statement, the embassy said it hosted a Memorial Day event on Monday evening in collaboration with the American Business Council-Kuwait (ABCK). The event featured remarks by US Ambassador to Kuwait Karen Sasahara and US Air Force Colonel Matthew Johnson, both of whom emphasized the symbolic importance of Memorial Day and the enduring partnership between Kuwait and the United States. Ambassador Sasahara and Colonel Johnson highlighted the significance of the occasion in honoring the sacrifices made by American service members and reaffirming the joint dedication of both nations to peace and security in the region. The event included a documentary screening focusing on the Liberation of Kuwait from Iraqi occupation. The film featured firsthand accounts from American, coalition, and Kuwaiti participants, reflecting more than three decades of military cooperation and sacrifice in Kuwait and the wider Gulf region. Senior Kuwaiti officials, members of the US diplomatic mission, and representatives from ABCK attended the event, underscoring the strong bilateral relations that extend beyond defense to include education, commerce, and cultural exchange. The US Embassy's statement emphasized that the longstanding partnership between Kuwait and the United States continues to be a cornerstone of regional stability, strengthened through ongoing collaboration across multiple sectors.
Arab Times
27-05-2025
- Politics
- Arab Times
US Embassy highlights strength and growth of Kuwait-US strategic partnership
KUWAIT CITY, May 27: The United States Embassy in Kuwait on Tuesday reaffirmed the robust strategic ties between the two countries and their shared commitment to regional security and stability. In a statement, the embassy said it hosted a Memorial Day event on Monday evening in collaboration with the American Business Council-Kuwait (ABCK). The event featured remarks by US Ambassador to Kuwait Karen Sasahara and US Air Force Colonel Matthew Johnson, both of whom emphasized the symbolic importance of Memorial Day and the enduring partnership between Kuwait and the United States. Ambassador Sasahara and Colonel Johnson highlighted the significance of the occasion in honoring the sacrifices made by American service members and reaffirming the joint dedication of both nations to peace and security in the region. The event included a documentary screening focusing on the Liberation of Kuwait from Iraqi occupation. The film featured firsthand accounts from American, coalition, and Kuwaiti participants, reflecting more than three decades of military cooperation and sacrifice in Kuwait and the wider Gulf region. Senior Kuwaiti officials, members of the US diplomatic mission, and representatives from ABCK attended the event, underscoring the strong bilateral relations that extend beyond defense to include education, commerce, and cultural exchange. The US Embassy's statement emphasized that the longstanding partnership between Kuwait and the United States continues to be a cornerstone of regional stability, strengthened through ongoing collaboration across multiple sectors.
