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Arab Times
6 hours ago
- Business
- Arab Times
Farewell and thanks to true friends of Kuwait
As we say goodbye to His Excellency Ambassador Osama Shaltout, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt since 2021, we take this opportunity to thank him for his dedicated service and the important role he played in strengthening the brotherly relationship between Egypt and Kuwait. Ambassador Shaltout has had a long and respected diplomatic career. Before his posting in Kuwait, he served as Assistant Foreign Minister for the Sudan and South Sudan Affairs from 2018 to 2021 and as Egypt's Ambassador to Sudan from 2014 to 2018. He also held other key positions, including Deputy Head of Mission in Sudan and Director of NGO Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In addition to these roles, he served in Egyptian diplomatic missions in Jakarta, Frankfurt, and a previous posting in Kuwait During his time in Kuwait, Ambassador Shaltout helped take the relationship between the two countries to new levels. He oversaw two five visits by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, which gave a strong push to cooperation in politics, economics, and culture. In 2024, the Joint Committee between Egypt and Kuwait met for the first time since 2019. The meeting was led by the Foreign Ministers and ended with the signing of ten agreements in different areas. Follow-up committees in education, labor, consular affairs, and trade were also held, including a separate trade meeting in February 2025. Ambassador Shaltout's time in Kuwait was not only defined by formal diplomacy, but also by people-centered engagement. Alongside him, his wife Mrs. Ghada Shawky brought energy and grace to the diplomatic community. As former President of the International Women's Group (IWG) in Kuwait, she played a key role in promoting cultural diversity, intercultural cooperation, and community outreach. Together, they represented Egypt with elegance, dedication, and a sincere spirit of friendship. Their presence enriched our community and their efforts will be remembered fondly. Through cultural events, public talks, and many friendly gatherings, Ambassador Shaltout helped bring Egyptians and Kuwaitis closer. His warmth and professionalism made him a highly respected figure in the community. As their time in Kuwait comes to an end, we extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to Ambassador Osama Shaltout and Mrs. Ghada Shawky. We wish them both all the best in the future. Their presence will be missed, and their legacy will be remembered.
Kuwait Times
08-07-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
Egypt implements pre-departure training program for expatriates
A farewell reception for Ambassador Shaltout KUWAIT: In a step aimed at better preparing Egyptian expatriates for the labor market in Kuwait, Egypt is implementing a pre-departure training program for workers traveling to the country. 'Each worker will undergo a three-month training program in Egypt, where they will be introduced to their job responsibilities and Kuwait's labor regulations — ensuring they are not exposed to violations stemming from a lack of legal awareness,' said Egyptian Ambassador to Kuwait Osama Shaltout. The announcement came on the sidelines of a reception hosted by the Egyptian Embassy on Thursday, marking the 73rd anniversary of the July 23 Revolution. Shaltout noted that the plan came as part of the latest meeting between the Egyptian Embassy and Kuwait's Public Authority of Manpower, aiming to strengthen bilateral coordination on labor issues and ensure better outcomes for Egyptian workers in Kuwait. To support this effort, he shared that 85 vocational training centers have been established across Egypt. Bidding farewell The event also served as a farewell reception for Ambassador Shaltout, who is concluding his four-year diplomatic mission in Kuwait. The gathering was attended by a number of dignitaries, diplomats, and senior Kuwaiti officials, including Minister of State for Municipal Affairs and Minister of State for Housing Affairs Abdullatif Al-Meshari. Reflecting on his time in Kuwait, Shaltout described the bilateral relationship as one marked by deep historical ties and close cooperation. 'Kuwait has always opened its arms to Egypt, and I have personally witnessed a spirit of mutual cooperation and brotherhood at every level. My mission here has been easy because of the exceptional relationship between our leaders and peoples - and difficult because it's a challenge to add something new to such strong ties. Yet, by the grace of God, we've made important progress together.' Fourth-largest foreign investor The ambassador highlighted the strength of economic ties, noting that bilateral trade exceeds $3 billion annually, and Kuwaiti investments in Egypt have surpassed $20 billion. This makes Kuwait the fourth-largest foreign investor in Egypt and third among Arab countries. He added that new investment initiatives and official visits are in the works, further strengthening the partnership. As part of ongoing efforts to facilitate travel and economic exchange, Shaltout also pointed to the availability of a five-year multiple-entry electronic visa to Egypt for citizens around the world, including Kuwaitis. 'This is a significant step toward openness and facilitating travel for both tourism and business,' he said, noting that applications can be submitted online or through consular services. Concluding his remarks, Ambassador Shaltout paid tribute to the enduring cultural and social bonds between Egypt and Kuwait, especially in the fields of tourism and education. Electronic visa 'Egypt has always been a second home for our Kuwaiti brothers and sisters. We consider them part of our extended family whenever they visit.' He also congratulated recent high school graduates in Kuwait, commending their dedication and the role of families and educators in their success. 'Their achievements are the result of determination, dedicated teachers, supportive families, and of course a strong academic system,' he said. As a parting message, he extended a warm invitation to explore Egypt's rich heritage - particularly the much-anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum. 'This magnificent cultural landmark - the largest in the world dedicated to a single civilization - reflects Egypt's unique ability to harmonize heritage and modernity. It stands as a powerful testament to Egypt's civilizational role and cultural message to the world.'
Gulf Insider
08-07-2025
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Egypt Introduces Pre-departure Training
In a move to better prepare its citizens for employment abroad, Egypt has introduced a mandatory pre-departure training programme for workers heading to Kuwait, aimed at equipping them with both vocational skills and knowledge of local labour laws. Under the initiative, each worker will complete a three-month training course in Egypt before travelling. The programme includes orientation on job responsibilities and a detailed overview of Kuwait's labour regulations, with the goal of reducing legal violations that often stem from a lack of awareness. 'This step is designed to ensure that workers are not exposed to exploitation or contractual misunderstandings once they arrive,' said Osama Shaltout, Egyptian Ambassador to Kuwait. 'By familiarising them with their rights and responsibilities in advance, we're setting them up for success and safeguarding their welfare.' The initiative follows a recent meeting between the Egyptian Embassy in Kuwait and the Kuwaiti Public Authority of Manpower, during which both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deeper coordination on labour issues. To support the rollout of the training programme, Egyptian authorities have established 85 vocational training centres across the country. These centres will serve as hubs for skill development, legal education, and pre-departure orientation. The move signals a broader effort by Egypt to modernise its labour export policies and strengthen protection mechanisms for its workforce abroad—particularly in GCC countries where large numbers of Egyptians are employed. Also read: SR200,000 Fine For Saudi And Egyptian In Cover-Up Case
Kuwait Times
06-07-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait-Egypt ties hailed as model of Arab cooperation
Kuwait's Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister of State for Housing Affairs Abdul Latif Al-Mashari with Egypt's Ambassador to Kuwait Osama Shaltout. - KUNA KUWAIT: Egyptian Ambassador to Kuwait Osama Shaltout on Thursday described Egyptian-Kuwaiti relations as a model of Arab cooperation rooted in mutual respect and shared interests. Speaking during a reception hosted by the Egyptian Embassy to mark the 73rd anniversary of the July 23, 1952 Revolution, Shaltout highlighted the depth of bilateral ties and ongoing efforts to strengthen cooperation across various sectors. The event was attended by Kuwait's Minister of Municipality and Minister of State for Housing Affairs Abdullatif Al-Meshari, along with senior officials and members of the diplomatic corps in Kuwait. Shaltout pointed to the significant development witnessed in multiple areas of cooperation between the two countries, crowned by the historic state visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to Egypt in April 2024. He described the visit as a pivotal moment in reinforcing the strong and strategic partnership between Kuwait and Egypt. Reflecting on the significance of the July 23 Revolution, Shaltout said the movement marked a turning point in Egypt's modern history, laying the foundations for national independence, sovereignty, and comprehensive development. He added that the revolution also inspired liberation movements throughout the Arab world and Africa. The ambassador expressed his appreciation to the government and people of Kuwait for their warm hospitality and support during his tenure, reaffirming Egypt's commitment to advancing bilateral collaboration in ways that benefit both nations and further strengthen the bonds between the Egyptian and Kuwaiti peoples. — KUNA
Arab Times
05-07-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
Egyptians and Kuwaitis ‘one family'
KUWAIT CITY, July 5: Egyptian Ambassador to Kuwait Osama Shaltout emphasized that Egyptians and Kuwaitis are like one family; indicating that what binds Egypt and Kuwait is not just official relations, but also strong public ties built on mutual love and appreciation, making this relationship a model for joint Arab cooperation. In a speech marking the 73rd anniversary of the July 23, 1952 Revolution, Ambassador Shaltout asserted that Kuwaiti-Egyptian relations are continuing to advance under the wise leadership of the leaders of both countries, enhancing the security and stability of the entire region. Present at the event were Minister of State for Municipal Affairs and Minister of State for Housing Affairs Abdullatif Al-Mishari, a number of officials, ambassadors and representatives of diplomatic missions in the country. Shaltout, who is preparing to end his diplomatic mission after four years in Kuwait, expressed his gratitude and appreciation to the Kuwaiti government and people for the warm welcome and generous hospitality he received throughout his tenure. He affirmed Egypt's keenness to strengthen ties of cooperation to serve the interests of the two sisterly countries. Ambassador Shaltout explained that hard work has borne fruit in the exchange of summit visits. His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- Sabah visited Egypt in 2024, and then welcomed Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Kuwait in April 2025 at the kind invitation of His Highness the Amir. He added that his mission in Kuwait was both easy and challenging. He explained that the distinguished relations between the two leaderships and peoples pose a challenge for any ambassador to add a new dimension. He stated that the joint efforts resulted in strengthening cooperation between the two sisterly countries. In press statements on the sidelines of the ceremony, Ambassador Shaltout disclosed that the volume of trade exchange between Kuwait and Egypt reached $3 billion annually, while Kuwaiti investments in Egypt amount to approximately $20 billion, making it among the largest foreign and Arab investments in Egypt. Ambassador Shaltout added that the investments achieved in recent years have been the result of economic and legislative reforms in Egypt and the creation of an attractive investment climate. He cited the imminent announcement of new investment projects and upcoming visits by economic delegations from both sides. Regarding the anniversary, Shaltout narrated that 'on July 23, 1952, the spark of one of the greatest revolutions in modern Egyptian history was ignited, led by the Free Officers who believed in their homeland and their people's right to dignity, freedom and social justice.' He revealed that the July 23 Revolution was not merely a change in the regime, but rather the beginning of a new era that carried the hopes of millions of Egyptians for liberation from colonialism, the building of a strong national army, and the establishment of principles that still live in the conscience of every free Egyptian. He added that the revolution established a stage of national independence, sovereignty, and patriotism that made Egypt a fundamental pillar in supporting national liberation movements in Africa and the Arab world and established the principle of non-alignment.' Ambassador Shaltout renewed his pledge to continue building and working for a modern Egypt based on justice and active participation, in light of the wise leadership and directives of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, who, along with his people, led the June 30 Revolution toward the new republic. In response to a question about the e-visa, Ambassador Shaltout explained that it is available to all nationalities, valid for five years, and can be applied for electronically for a specific fee that varies depending on the visa duration. The Egyptian ambassador confirmed that there is close cooperation between Cairo and Kuwait to facilitate the movement of Egyptian workers, provided they are qualified and trained, ensuring their proper integration into the Kuwaiti labor market and protecting them from any violation. He stated that Egypt currently has more than 85 vocational training centers, where workers undergo comprehensive training on Kuwaiti laws and the work environment before traveling, reflecting both countries' commitment to ensuring a safe and organized work environment. Regarding the new ambassador, Shaltout confirmed that the incoming Egyptian ambassador -- Mohamed Jaber Abu Al-Wafa -- served in Kuwait as deputy head of the diplomatic mission, and has vast experience and knowledge of Kuwaiti society, as well as his distinguished relations with Kuwaiti officials. He affirmed that the latter will continue to develop cooperation between the two countries.
