Czech Ambassador: Jazeera Airways Opens Winter Window to Prague
Czech Ambassador Juraj Chmela expressed his hope to expand direct flights between Kuwait and the Czech Republic via Jazeera Airways to cover all seasons, praising the strong bilateral relations and defense cooperation.
Translated by Qiyas from الراي — Original source
Juraj Chmel, the Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Kuwait, expressed his aspiration to expand direct flights between Kuwait and the Czech Republic to cover all seasons, rather than being limited to specific periods. He emphasized that enhancing air connectivity would bring the two peoples closer, boost tourism, and open broader horizons for cultural and economic exchange.
In a speech delivered at a reception hosted by the Czech Embassy to mark Independence Day, Chmel noted that Kuwait Airways’ winter direct flights to Prague represent an important step in this direction, expressing hope that efforts would continue to provide year-round direct travel options.
He clarified that the winter flights launched by Kuwait Airways allow travelers from Kuwait to discover the Czech capital during the holiday season and winter markets, taking advantage of Prague’s rich historical, cultural, and heritage landmarks.
Chmel mentioned that Kuwait Airways operates two direct flights weekly between Kuwait and Prague from December 17, 2026, to February 7, 2027, as a seasonal expansion of the route the airline traditionally operates during the summer. This move strengthens tourism prospects between the two countries and provides a wider scope for cultural and economic exchange.
He affirmed the strong ties between his country and Kuwait, highlighting both sides’ commitment to further developing cooperation across various fields. He pointed out that the fifth round of Czech-Kuwaiti political consultations, held in October despite regional security challenges, reflects the strength of the partnership between the two nations.
Expressing appreciation for the historical relations between the two countries, Chmel noted that Czechoslovakia recognized Kuwait in 1961, established diplomatic relations with it in 1963, and opened its embassy in Kuwait in 1965.
He explained that relations have evolved over the past decades, extending beyond diplomacy to include commercial, economic, and investment cooperation, thereby providing mutual opportunities and benefits for both sides.
In this context, Chmel expressed deep sorrow over the Iranian attacks that Kuwait suffered earlier this year, conveying sincere condolences on behalf of the Czech Republic and the Embassy to the families and relatives of the victims.
He affirmed his country’s solidarity with the Kuwaiti people and leadership during these difficult times, stressing the Czech Republic’s support for Kuwait and honoring the memory of those who lost their lives, while wishing them peace.
The ambassador emphasized the Czech Republic’s commitment to supporting regional security and stability, noting that his country’s participation in the “Desert Storm” operation, along with long-term defense cooperation with Kuwait, has contributed to laying the foundations of the close partnership between the two nations.
He stressed the importance of continuing and strengthening this cooperation in the coming years to serve shared interests and support security and stability in the region.
Chmel also recalled the founding of Czechoslovakia in October 1918, praising the roles played by Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk, Milan Rastislav Štefánik, Edvard Beneš, and other figures who contributed to achieving independence.
He noted that the Czech Republic and the Slovak Republic were peacefully established in 1993 following the dissolution of Czechoslovakia, with continued close relations between the two countries.
On the sidelines of his attendance at the Czech Embassy’s celebration of the national holiday, Al-Badr commended the trajectory of bilateral relations, affirming the commitment to developing them and intensifying political, regional, and international consultations.
He clarified that the Political Cooperation Committee between the two countries recently held a meeting in Prague, chaired by Deputy Foreign Minister Ambassador Hamad Al-Mashaan, during which consensus was reached on several issues expected to be resolved soon, noting the development of Czech defense capabilities.
