Algerian Ambassador: Our relations with Kuwait are historical and deeply rooted, and we are working to enhance cooperation and open a direct air route

Osama Diab: The Algerian Ambassador to Kuwait, Omar Belhadj, affirmed the depth and strength of Kuwaiti-Algerian relations, describing them as historical and rooted in solid foundations of brotherhood, solidarity, and mutual respect. He praised the honorable historical stances taken by Kuwait, both its leadership and people, alongside Algeria during the Liberation Revolution, highlighting the support and assistance provided to the Algerian cause.

This statement was made by Ambassador Belhadj during a speech at a ceremony hosted by the Algerian Embassy in Kuwait to commemorate Mujahid Day, which falls on August 20 of each year, in the presence of members of the Algerian community.

Belhadj stated that commemorating Mujahid Day represents a national occasion of great importance in Algeria’s history and its liberation revolution, as it recalls the sacrifices of the mujahideen and martyrs who gave their lives to liberate the homeland and restore national sovereignty. He emphasized that the August 20 anniversary marks a prominent milestone in the course of the Algerian Revolution due to its military, political, and organizational significance.

He clarified that this occasion is linked to two pivotal events in the history of the Algerian Revolution. The first is the Battle of Constantine North, which erupted on August 20, 1955, and constituted a crucial turning point in the revolution’s trajectory, contributing to the expansion of armed struggle and conveying the voice of the Algerian Revolution both domestically and internationally. The second event is the Soummam Conference, held on August 20, 1956, which is considered one of the most significant political and organizational milestones in the history of the Algerian Revolution. It helped establish clear frameworks for revolutionary action, consolidate the revolution’s structures, define responsibilities, reorganize regions and wilayas, and divide tasks among various military and political leaderships and structures.

Regarding bilateral relations, Belhadj affirmed that Kuwait-Algeria relations are witnessing continuous development, noting a shared commitment by the leaderships of both countries to enhance and elevate ties across various fields, reflecting the deep historical and fraternal bonds uniting the two nations and their peoples.

He revealed his recent meeting with the Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Arab Affairs of Kuwait, where the two sides discussed a number of files and issues of mutual interest, alongside reviewing the state of bilateral relations and ways to advance cooperation and coordination. He explained that the meeting also addressed the Kuwaiti-Algerian Joint Committee, emphasizing the importance of holding its meetings in the coming period as one of the main mechanisms for enhancing cooperation between the two countries.

He noted that the upcoming meetings of the committee will be chaired by the finance ministers of both countries, reflecting a shared interest in developing economic, investment, and trade relations and opening new horizons for cooperation between the two nations.

He pointed out that both sides are also discussing the imminent launch of a direct air route connecting the capitals of the two countries, Kuwait and Algiers. He considered the inauguration of this route a significant step in strengthening communication between the two peoples and facilitating the movement of citizens, businessmen, investors, and tourists. He explained that direct air connectivity would contribute to revitalizing economic, tourism, and cultural cooperation, and open broader horizons for bilateral relations, particularly given the presence of an Algerian community in Kuwait and the strong social, human, and cultural ties binding the two peoples.

He praised Kuwait, its leadership, government, and people, for the care and hospitality extended to the Algerian community, describing Kuwait as a fraternal and hospitable country. He affirmed that members of the Algerian community are held in high esteem and respect within Kuwaiti society.