South Korean Ambassador: Relations with Kuwait are solid and growing stronger in the face of challenges
صورة: وكالة الأنباء الكويتية (كونا)
South Korean Ambassador Jang Hyun Kim affirmed the depth of historical ties with Kuwait during the embassy celebration, praising Korean support during the invasion and current cooperation in infrastructure and defense.
Translated by Qiyas from كونا — Original source
Kuwait City, September 11 (KUNA) – The Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Kuwait, Jang Hyun Kim, affirmed on Monday the robustness of the bilateral relations between the two friendly countries and the depth of historical ties built on mutual trust and solidarity in the face of challenges, emphasizing that Kuwait-Korea friendship has proven its resilience during difficult times.
This statement was made by Ambassador Kim in a speech delivered during a celebration hosted by his embassy to mark Korea’s National Foundation Day and Armed Forces Day. The event was attended by the Minister of State for Municipal Affairs and Minister of State for Housing, Abdul Latif Al-Mutairi, the Chief of Staff of the National Service Authority, Major General Naif Al-Azmi, a number of state officials, heads of diplomatic missions, and representatives of international organizations in Kuwait.
Ambassador Kim stated that relations between the two countries exemplify true friendship, demonstrated by standing side by side during crises. He noted that shared challenges have contributed to enhancing convergence and mutual understanding between them.
He recalled his country’s supportive stance toward Kuwait during the brutal Iraqi invasion in 1990, explaining that Korea contributed to Kuwait’s liberation efforts by deploying a military medical support unit and a military air transport unit comprising five C-130 aircraft, in addition to providing financial contributions to support the international coalition’s efforts. He added that the Kuwaiti people still cherish the memory of this stance and appreciate Korean support during that historical period, reflecting the deep bonds between the two friendly peoples.
He pointed out that bilateral relations faced a new test this year, which further demonstrated the strength of friendship between the two countries. He highlighted the phone call held last March between the two foreign ministers, as well as the visit of Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Sheikh Jaraah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah to Seoul last August, which was the first by a Kuwaiti foreign minister in 19 years.
He clarified that the visit featured extensive discussions reflecting both sides’ commitment to enhancing consultation and coordination on issues of common interest.
Ambassador Kim affirmed that friendship between the two countries is not limited to official relations but extends to practical cooperation, citing the arrival of Korean engineers in Kuwait during the recent security crisis to help repair damaged oil refineries despite difficult circumstances.
Regarding economic cooperation, he noted that Korean companies have contributed since the 1970s to the development of Kuwait’s infrastructure. He highlighted the success of Incheon International Airport Corporation in ensuring the continuity of operational activities at Passenger Terminal 4 during recent disruptions, and expressed its aspiration to participate in the operation of the new Passenger Terminal 2.
He also expressed his country’s hope to enhance bilateral cooperation in defense, health, and infrastructure sectors, alongside expanding cultural and people-to-people exchanges, which would contribute to consolidating the partnership between the two countries.
He concluded his speech by emphasizing that Kuwait-Korea friendship grows stronger with every challenge, expressing hope that the region would witness sustainable stability and that bilateral relations would continue to grow and flourish. (End)
