Abu dhabi: The first UAE-Kuwaiti Women's Forum opened in Abu Dhabi on Thursday under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the 'Mother of the Nation', Chairwoman of the General Women's Union (GWU), President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood (SCMC), and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation (FDF). The forum coincides with the 'UAE-Kuwait: Brothers Forever' Week, running from January 29 through February 4.
According to Emirates News Agency, the forum is organized by the GWU in cooperation with Kuwait's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and runs until February 3. It aims to celebrate the deep-rooted relations between the UAE and Kuwait and strengthen cooperation, particularly in women's empowerment and sustainable development.
In an opening address delivered on behalf of H.H. Sheikha Fatima by Noura Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Secretary-General of the GWU, it was stated that the forum reflects the UAE's commitment to joint action and integrated efforts to build a prosperous future, aligning with the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The address emphasized the enduring bonds between the two countries, describing the forum as a bridge between a shared legacy and a jointly shaped future. It highlighted the alignment between the 'Mother of the Nation 50:50' vision and the "Kuwait 2035" vision, reaffirming that investing in people is central to building stable societies. The achievements of Kuwaiti women in national development were also acknowledged.
Al Suwaidi mentioned that the forum is a significant milestone in Emirati-Kuwaiti cooperation, enhancing institutional coordination and opening broader opportunities for joint work in support of women's issues and sustainable development.
The forum is held in a hybrid format, combining in-person and virtual participation. It aims to highlight the role of Emirati and Kuwaiti women in strengthening historic ties, exchanging expertise, and fostering dialogue among women leaders on priority issues, challenges, and opportunities.
The programme includes sessions on women and future-making, advanced technology, peace and security, women's sport, and women's roles in media, tourism, logistics, climate action, and renewable energy.
An accompanying exhibition at the GWU headquarters showcases women-led initiatives, Productive Families, and small businesses, alongside cultural displays from both countries, reflecting women's role in preserving heritage and transforming it into sustainable economic and social value.