Traditional pearl diving expedition arrives at Kuwaiti waters

HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah's support of the annual traditional diving expedition event, organised by the Kuwait Sea Sports Club, was stressed on Thursday. Attending the event at the close of the 25th expedition, Kuwait's Minister of Information and State Minister for Youth Sheikh Salman Sabah Salem Al-Humoud Al-Sabah quoted HH the Amir's greetings to the divers, and his appreciation of the important messages the cultural and historical activity represents. His remarks were made during a celebration known as, Yom Al-Qaffal, or the day of closing - which marks the end of the four-month long traditional pre-oil discovery pearl diving season in Kuwait. A total of 10 dhows, carrying 190 pearl divers, anchored at Kuwait Sea Club to the applause and delight of awaiting families, in a sign of national and local pride "Diving expeditions represent a huge importance in reviving traditions of the sea and commemorate the graciousness and sacrifices of our forefathers to their country," he said. The minister commended the contingent of divers, who took part in the event, along with each of their ship commanders, traditionally known as the Noukhetha. The efforts of Sea Sports Club officials were also praised. In addition to the Kuwaitis, fellow Gulf counterparts took part in the event, including some from Bahrain and Oman, and, he said, "this embodies the unity of purpose of Gulf nations." Acting Sea Sports Club chief Ahmad Al-Ghanim said that the safe return of the divers marks a link between the current generation and their past predecessors. The activities have also taught the youngsters important principles like endurance, patience, cooperation and independence. "Their harvest of pearls has a huge symbolic meaning to the young divers, who now can relate to the profession of their forefathers, who withstood sacrifice in order to provide an income for their families and their nation," he said.