ShareKUWAIT: The Public Diplomacy Section of the US Embassy in Kuwait held a photo exhibition on Thursday titled “Allies in Focus: Capturing Liberation” in collaboration with the Gardenia exhibition at the Kuwait National Museum. The event showcased the pivotal role played by the US in Kuwait’s liberation during the Gulf War. In her opening speech, the US Ambassador to Kuwait, Karen Sasahara, emphasized the deep and enduring relationship between the United States and Kuwait.
She noted that the photographs on display serve as a powerful reminder of the bravery, resilience and solidarity that defined this historic moment, reinforcing the strong bond between the two nations. Reflecting on a personal memory, the ambassador recalled the shock and disbelief she felt on August 2, 1990, when news of the Iraqi invasion broke while she was in London. Having spent the previous two years in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, she initially struggled to believe the reports, only to quickly realize the harsh reality of the situation.
“This exhibition is a testament to the strength of our partnership-because friends help friends,” she stated, emphasizing that even 34 years later, the liberation remains a foundational element of the modern US-Kuwait relationship. The US ambassador recalled that Saddam Hussein sought to erase Kuwait’s identity, but today, the nation stands stronger than ever, praising the vibrant local brands and businesses as symbols of Kuwait’s unique and enduring identity.
In the end, she expressed excitement for the upcoming performance by the Absinthe Band on Liberation Day, which she described as another meaningful way to celebrate the friendship and partnership between both countries. For his part, Public Diplomacy Officer at the Embassy, Stuart Turner, said that the collection of the photo exhibition includes rare photographs featuring notable figures, with many of these images taken during the years immediately following the war, illustrating the critical role played by American and Kuwaiti leaders during the liberation of Kuwait.
He added that the decision to make these photographs public coincides with Kuwait’s National and Liberation Day celebrations, highlighting the enduring strength of Kuwaiti-American relations. “Our security partnership remains strong, but our relationship extends far beyond that. Thousands of Kuwaitis study in the US, and American businesses continue to thrive here. Whether it’s education, culture, technology, or trade, the ties between Kuwait and the United States are stronger than ever,” Turner said.
He noted, “Our shared history is important, but so is our shared future. From military training exercises to advancements in AI and renewable energy, Kuwait and the US continue to work hand in hand. What benefits Kuwait benefits the United States, and our partnership will only grow stronger.” In his remarks, National Council for Culture, Arts, and Literature Secretary-General Dr. Mohammad Al-Jassar highlighted that the Kuwait National Museum was one of the primary targets of the Iraqi invasion, during which its artifacts were looted, and whatever was deemed unworthy of transport to Iraq was burned and destroyed.
However, he underscored that despite this, Kuwait has reclaimed its heritage, and today, in the very place that once witnessed theft and destruction, the nation stands proudly alongside its allies to celebrate this moment. He described the museum as a symbol of Kuwait’s enduring resilience and unwavering commitment to preserving its identity and freedom. He indicated that the museum serves as a storyteller, adding, “The story of Kuwait is told through it. The museum was built to narrate Kuwait’s history, from its antiquities dating back over 7,000 years to today. It also houses the Al-Sabah Collection, one of the world’s finest Islamic art collections. And now, we are here to continue narrating Kuwait’s history from the events of 35 years ago to the present day.” In closing, Al-Jassar extended his gratitude to the United States and its allies for their role in Kuwait’s liberation, reaffirming the importance of this partnership in upholding freedom and justice. For his part, Architect Bashar Al-Salem, Founder and CEO of Kayan, said, “The United States was not just an ally; it was a true friend that stood with us in our time of need,” praising the role played by the American people and the US military in the liberation of Kuwait.
Al-Salem stressed that the sacrifices and bravery of American soldiers will never be forgotten, and their contribution to restoring Kuwait’s freedom and strengthening its democracy will remain deeply ingrained in the nation’s collective memory, reaffirming that the bond of friendship between Kuwait and the United States continues to grow stronger over time. He concluded his speech by saying, “Kuwait is forever grateful, and we look forward to the continued prosperity of our partnership in peace and mutual growth.”
