Kuwait's Foreign Policy: City-state In World Politics (WESTVIEW SPECIAL STUDIES ON THE MIDDLE EAST)

This book assesses the dynamics of Kuwaiti foreign policy since 1961 and explores the role of Kuwait as a small state in international politics. It analyzes the impact of ideology, religion, and value systems on Kuwaiti foreign policy as well as the impact of domestic forces on political actors. The author argues that three goals perceived as essential to preserving the integrity of the state have shaped Kuwaiti foreign policy - political and military security, Arabic ideology and Islamic values, and a "mission" to share and invest the nation's wealth. He discusses how Kuwait has transformed these goals into political actions by steering clear of ideological and political polarization in the Arab world; maintaining cordial relations with Arab, Moslem and Third World countries as well as with the superpowers; and serving as a mediator in inter-Arab politics. Dr Assiri examines the major external events that have shaped Kuwaiti foreign policy and looks at how recent regional instabilities have limited Kuwait's foreign policy options. Finally, he analyzes how Kuwait succeeded in breaking through its encirclement by inviting the superpowers to protect its oil trade. Abdul-reda Assiri. Includes Bibliographical References (p. 169-184) And Index.