KUWAIT: Under the auspices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the third season of the Young Ambassador Program was inaugurated, with the United Nations Resident Coordinator Office in Kuwait collaborating with the British and Canadian Embassies. The launch event took place on October 28, 2024, at the UN House, with the presence of Minister Plenipotentiary Mohamed Rashid Al-Omairi from the Kuwait Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasizing the ministry’s commitment to youth engagement in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).
Omairi highlighted that the program can empower youth to become advocates for sustainable peace and security, while also familiarizing them with the principles of the UN Charter, which serves as a foundation for international relations. "Youth in Kuwait have long played an important part in society. As much we teach and share our expertise in our fields, the youth of today can also help us learn, grow, and offer us a new perspective into pressing issues. By providing a platform for students to help their skills in the field, and exposing them to diplomacy, we are sure to gain from their contributions.”
Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Kuwait’s UN Resident Coordinator Ghada Eltahir thanked the British and Canadian Embassies, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. "Your dedication is not only commendable but vital in advancing our shared vision of a peaceful and prosperous global community,” she said.
British Ambassador Belinda Lewis said the program has helped several highly motivated young people grow their confidence and leadership skills. She added that the embassy looks forward to seeing the group tackle the theme of sustainable peace and security.
"This is a complex area, covering issues ranging from organized crime and open conflict to transparent governance and representative decision-making. We look forward to our Young Ambassadors learning about these important topics and offering constructive challenges as they develop and share their insights, ideas and reflections.”
Canadian Ambassador Aliya Mawani said the program offers students in Kuwait an opportunity to learn about diplomacy first-hand from experts, develop skills for effective advocacy, and contribute their insights on how to ensure a secure and peaceful world. "We are living in complex times and youth engagement is critical if our global governance and efforts to promote peace and security are to be relevant and fit for purpose,” she said.
Eltahir highlighted the urgent need for sustainable peace amid today’s global challenges, such as conflicts and geopolitical tensions. She noted that the program supports UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ vision of empowering youth in decision-making. "I am confident these young ambassadors will advocate for peace and inclusive societies in line with SDG 16,” she said.