KUWAIT: First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Talal Al-Khaled Al-Sabah attended on Thursday the unveiling of the first Kuwait-made coastguard interception vessel. He said bolstering the ability of the Kuwaiti coastguard is important to handle security challenges and protect the country from marine threats.

According to the interior ministry’s public relations and security media department, Sheikh Talal said it is important to encourage national staff to excel, especially in the security domain. He affirmed that locally made vessels and boats would boost the security abilities of the coastguard to better handle alarming situations and fend off those meaning harm to Kuwait.

Sheikh Talal expressed pride in the Kuwaiti cadres and local industry within the General Directorate of the Coast Guard. He indicated the new interceptor boat would significantly contribute to the localization of Kuwaiti industry, utilizing all available capabilities. He emphasized the commitment to overcoming any obstacles hindering the progress of local industry, stating, “This is the strategic goal towards achieving self-sufficiency.”

The minister listened to an explanation of the technical stages involved in manufacturing the boat, along with its designated tasks. Additionally, a presentation was given on a group of boats currently undergoing equipment installation to finalize their production, after which they will be launched to fulfill their security responsibilities. Senior officials from the interior ministry attended the ceremony. — KUNA