Tribute paid to Djibouti's ambassador, recognized for past achievements before taking on Foreign Minister duties.
In a welcoming ambiance teeming with warmth and fondness, the diplomatic scene in Kuwait said their goodbyes to Djibouti's Ambassador, HE Abdulqader Hussein Omar, during a touching gathering at the Regency Hotel. This heartfelt ceremony marked the concluding chapter of his diplomatic stint in Kuwait and celebrated his latest position as Djibouti's Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Delivering an emotional address in Arabic, English, and French, Ambassador Abdulqader expressed heartfelt appreciation to his fellow diplomats, donning special thanks on Tajikistan's Ambassador HE Zubidullah Zubidov for masterminding the tribute.
"It's been an honor," he said, "to represent my country in the vibrant State of Kuwait throughout the past four years. The experience has been enriching, and the relationships meaningful. From the very first day, I was greeted with unparalleled warmth." He described Kuwait as a "dynamic" nation and shared that he departs with "the sweetest memories."
Ambassador Abdulqader lauded the backing he received from the Kuwaiti Ministry of Foreign Affairs, issuing special thanks to Minister Sheikh Abdullah Al-Yahya, Deputy Minister Sheikh Jarrah Al-Jaber, and the Assistant Ministers for Protocol and Arab Affairs.
He extended gracious thanks to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad and His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled for their consistent encouragement during his tenure.
Reflecting on his new role, Abdulqader hailed his appointment as Foreign Minister as "a colossal responsibility and an immense trust bestowed upon me by President Ismail Omar Guelleh." He added, "I did not foresee this duty, but when one's homeland calls, one must respond. I solicit your prayers, as the task is colossal. I vow to do my utmost to live up to the aspirations of my country and colleagues, and I hope to revisit Kuwait whenever feasible."
Following the event, the ambassador issued a press statement, emphasizing that the evening was not a farewell but "a message of love and loyalty" after four years of closeness and collaboration. He commended Kuwait's Ministry of Foreign Affairs for facilitating his mission and appreciated the "deep-rooted, fraternal" ties between Djibouti and Kuwait.
He highlighted that Djibouti has yet to nominate a new ambassador to Kuwait but will appoint "an esteemed figure" capable of reinforcing bilateral relations even further. He underscored the importance of persisting collaboration in international forums and upholding neutrality and non-interference in domestic affairs.
"Djibouti is a crucial regional player boasting cultural and security dimensions, and it remains committed to its role in fostering peace and stability," he confirmed. "Our president is a dispenser of peace, and we will continue to adhere to his mandates by firming up neutrality and constructing connections."
Speaking on behalf of Ambassador Zubidov, the Dean of the African Diplomatic Corps, Comoros Ambassador Dr. Aref Said Hassan, addressed the gathering, saying: "We bid a heartfelt farewell to a dear comrade and distinguished diplomat who has indelibly left a lasting professional and human mark in Kuwait and upheld his nation with honor."
He added, "We've known you as an accomplished, humble man-an embodiment of professionalism and commitment. You built connections of cooperation with your fellow diplomats and held a leading role in enhancing Djibouti-Kuwait relations while actively participating in political, cultural, and athletic events."
Ambassador Aref concluded by stating that Abdulqader's appointment as Foreign Minister is "the pinnacle of an exceptional career," wishing him success in his new role and affirming that the relationships forged in Kuwait "will endure across distances."
Evidently, Ambassador Abdulqader has been an active participant in various diplomatic events. For instance, he met with the AUC Chairperson to explore matters of shared interest and continental cooperation[1]. He also engaged with the Qatari Ambassador to discuss avenues for enhancing bilateral relations[3]. However, more concrete details about his recent farewell ceremony in Ku Windows, which may shed light on his statements, are unavailable as of the time of enrichment.
- The Ambassador of Djibouti, HE Abdulqader Hussein Omar, expressed his gratitude towards the diplomatic community in Kuwait and specifically mentioned Tajikistan's Ambassador, HE Zubidullah Zubidov, for organizing his farewell event during his touching goodbye ceremony at the Regency Hotel.
- In his new role as Djibouti's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Abdulqader illustrated the importance of strengthening international forums, emphasizing the need for neutrality and non-interference in domestic affairs to maintain peace and stability, especially considering Djibouti's role as a crucial regional player.
- During the farewell event, Comoros Ambassador Dr. Aref Said Hassan, the Dean of the African Diplomatic Corps, commended Ambassador Abdulqader's professional and human impact in Kuwait and highlighted his ability to form cooperative connections with fellow diplomats while actively participating in political, cultural, and athletic events.
