Archbishop Eugene Martin Nugent has concluded his five-year tenure as the Apostolic Nuncio to Kuwait and the Arabian Peninsula, preparing to take up a new assignment as the Holy See's diplomatic representative in the Czech Republic. His departure marks the end of a period characterized by active engagement with Kuwait’s diplomatic community, local Catholic faithful, and broader society.
Archbishop Nugent arrived in Kuwait in 2021, amid global uncertainty shaped by the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing regional tensions. Over the past half-decade, he became a well-recognized figure, noted for his approachable manner and efforts to foster connections beyond formal diplomacy. He played a key role in enhancing the visibility and accessibility of the Apostolic Nunciature, transforming it into a space for dialogue and relationship-building among people from diverse backgrounds.
His tenure saw important developments for the Catholic Church in Kuwait, notably the elevation of the Church of Our Lady of Arabia in Ahmadi to the status of a Minor Basilica—the first of its kind in the Arabian Peninsula. This milestone was commemorated in January 2026 by a visit from Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of the Holy See, underscoring the significance of the Catholic community within the region.
Archbishop Nugent expressed deep appreciation for Kuwait’s leadership, including His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, praising the country’s dedication to dialogue, moderation, and peaceful coexistence. He highlighted Kuwait’s role as a stable and resilient nation amid regional and global challenges such as the war in Ukraine and tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
In a farewell address at a ceremony held in Kuwait City, the Nuncio emphasized the importance of diplomacy as a means of building trust between people, going beyond protocol and formal communications. The event, attended by government officials, church leaders, diplomats, and community members, was also graced by Ambassador Najeeb Abdulrahman Al-Bader, Kuwait’s Assistant Foreign Minister for Europe Affairs, illustrating the warm ties between the Holy See and Kuwait.
Archbishop Nugent also acknowledged the contributions of the local Catholic community, particularly the clergy and thousands of expatriate lay faithful, who enrich Kuwait’s social fabric through their quiet dedication. He shared personal reflections on cultural experiences in the country, recalling moments where differences in religion and nationality gave way to genuine friendship.
Known to regard Kuwait as his "second home," Archbishop Nugent leaves behind a legacy of openness and engagement both within and beyond the Catholic community. As he prepares to begin his new mission in Prague, he conveyed his hopes and prayers for Kuwait’s continued peace and prosperity.