Domestic drivers will shape Kuwaiti foreign policy

Significance

Kuwaiti foreign policy has traditionally played a balancing role in the region. The country manages to engage in regional affairs without alienating neighbours.

Impacts

• Kuwait will still prioritise Gulf unity, despite holding a different position on outreach to Israel.
• A possible maritime border demarcation agreement with Iran may still take place as part of the region-wide rapprochement.
• Strong China-Kuwait trade and investment relations will not weaken US-Kuwaiti strategic ties.