KUWAITI Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Salem Abdullah Al-Jaber Al-Sabah condemned the killing of Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) Jullebee Ranara and assured that the perpetrator will be punished.

The Kuwaiti Foreign Minister made the assurance when he received Jose A. Cabrera III, Philippine Chargé d’Affaires in Kuwait on January 29 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).

Sheikh Salem asked Cabrera to convey his deepest condolences to the family and the Philippine government on the brutal and tragic death of Ms. Ranara.

He condemned her murder and said the perpetrator, who has been arrested and is currently in detention, will be punished for this heinous crime, the Embassy said.

Sheikh Salem added that the actions of the perpetrator do not in any way reflect the character and values of Kuwaiti society, the Kuwaiti people, and the Kuwaiti government.

Cabrera expressed appreciation for the cooperation and assistance of Kuwaiti authorities, particularly for the swift action and response in the apprehension of the suspect and in the clearances for the shipment of Ms. Ranara’s remains.

Sheikh Salem said the MOFA will provide the Philippine Embassy all necessary assistance as it continues to monitor Ms. Ranara’s case.

Cabrera informed Sheikh Salem that, based on statements by Ms. Maria Susana V. Ople, Secretary of Migrant Workers, there is no ban on deployment to Kuwait.

Sheikh Salem and Cabrera also discussed bilateral relations between the Philippines and Kuwait and expressed a mutual commitment to closer dialogue and engagement between the two countries, especially in the coming months.

Kuwait news reports said an autopsy conducted in Gulf state revealed that Ranara was raped and impregnated.

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Cristina Lee-Pisco