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.”
