Ambassador of Uzbekistan: We look forward to a broader partnership with Kuwait in economy, investment, tourism, and technology

Osama Diab: The Ambassador of the Republic of Uzbekistan to Kuwait, Ayub Khan Yunusov, affirmed the deep historical ties binding the two countries, praising Kuwait’s sustained support for Uzbekistan’s development journey, particularly through the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development. He emphasized Uzbekistan’s aspiration to expand cooperation with Kuwait in the coming period across various fields, reflecting the friendship, mutual respect, and shared interests that underpin bilateral relations.

In a speech delivered during the Uzbek Embassy’s celebration of the 35th anniversary of its country’s independence, held last night at the Regency Hotel, Ambassador Yunusov noted that Kuwait holds a special place in Uzbekistan’s heart. He pointed out that Kuwait was among the first countries to recognize Uzbekistan’s independence in December 1991, and since then, bilateral relations have continued to grow and develop on a solid foundation of trust and mutual respect.

The event was attended by the Minister of State for Economic Affairs and Acting Minister of Commerce and Industry, Abdulaziz Al-Marzouq; the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to Kuwait, His Highness Prince Sultan bin Saad bin Khalid Al Saud; alongside several ambassadors, diplomatic corps members, officials, and prominent figures.

Ambassador Yunusov praised the role played by the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development in supporting development projects in Uzbekistan over the years, particularly in the water, infrastructure, and health sectors. He stressed that these contributions are highly appreciated by the Uzbek government and people, reflecting the depth of the developmental partnership between the two countries.

He noted that Kuwait-Uzbek relations are witnessing growing human and cultural exchanges, adding that the visa exemption for Kuwaiti citizens for a period of 30 days has helped open broader horizons for tourism and people-to-people ties. He welcomed Kuwaiti visitors to Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, and other tourist cities and regions in Uzbekistan.

Ambassador Yunusov reaffirmed his country’s pride in its relations with Kuwait, expressing Uzbekistan’s appreciation for the approach adopted by the Kuwaiti leadership in supporting peace, stability, and dialogue. He also thanked the Kuwaiti government for the care and attention it provides to Uzbek nationals residing and working in Kuwait.

He stated that Kuwait-Uzbek friendship will continue to strengthen, driven by the will of both countries’ leaderships and the efforts of their peoples, as it is a relationship based on brotherhood and joint action. He expressed his hope that the coming years will bring greater opportunities to build a deeper and broader partnership, especially in economic, investment, tourism, and technical fields.

Returning to the occasion, the ambassador explained that August 31, 1991, marks a historic milestone in the journey of the Uzbek people, who regained their right to build their independent state and shape their future by their own will. He noted that independence served as the foundation from which modern Uzbekistan’s development path began, consolidating its national identity and strengthening state institutions.

In conclusion, Ambassador Yunusov extended his best wishes to His Highness Prince Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled, and His Highness Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah, Prime Minister, as well as to the State of Kuwait and its brotherly people, for enduring security, prosperity, and development. He concluded by saying, “Friendship and brotherhood between Uzbekistan and the State of Kuwait shall endure.”