On September 30, 2020, Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a message of condolence to Kuwaiti new Emir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah on the death of Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. On behalf of the Chinese government and Chinese people and in his own name, Xi Jinping extended deep condolence to the death of Emir Sabah and sincere solicitude to Emir Sabah's relatives and the people of Kuwait.

Xi Jinping stressed that Emir Sabah was an extraordinary leader of Kuwait who had made significant contributions to the building of a modernized Kuwait and the promotion of regional peace and development. During his lifetime, he attached great importance to the relation between Kuwait and China and made outstanding contribution to Kuwait-China friendship and cooperation in all aspects. Xi Jinping felt deeply regret for his death that the Chinese people lose a sincere old friend. He said he values the traditional friendship between the two countries and is convinced that with the joint efforts of both sides, the Kuwait-China strategic partnership will see steadfast consolidation and development.

On the same day, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang sent a message of condolence to Kuwaiti Prime Minister Sabah over the passing of the former Emir, extending deep condolence to the Government of Kuwait and sincere sympathies to the former Emir's relatives.