An important Meeting: A visit to Kuwait

17.02.2025

#News from the press service of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan

   Cooperation built on mutual interest has a long-lasting foundation. Diplomatic relations between Uzbekistan and Kuwait were established in 1992, and it is true that cooperation between the two countries has been actively developing in various fields. Another important step in this cooperation was the visit of our President to Kuwait, invited by the Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.

   The sincere dialogue between the two country leaders paved the way for fruitful cooperation. During the conversation, the two sides discussed further developing and strengthening the friendship and multifaceted partnership between Uzbekistan and Kuwait.

   Our President particularly emphasized the successful implementation of "Nigoh 2035" state program in Kuwait, whose goals and objectives align with the long-term priorities of the New Uzbekistan development strategy. It is significant that this mutual cooperation has been ongoing for several years. Let’s take a closer look at recent history.

   Particularly noteworthy is the cooperation in the economic and investment fields. Kuwaiti investment funds and companies are showing interest in investing in various sectors in Uzbekistan. Kuwaiti funds are implementing several projects, especially in infrastructure, energy, and construction.

   Similarly, trade and economic relations have seen the organization of joint projects and events aimed at expanding trade-economic cooperation between the two countries. Increasing trade turnover and exporting Uzbek products to the Kuwaiti market remain crucial tasks. Uzbekistan has been successfully cooperating with the Kuwait-Arab Economic Development Fund, which contributes to financing infrastructure projects in Uzbekistan. Education and scientific exchanges are also proceeding well. Universities in Uzbekistan and Kuwait have established cooperative ties, and student and researcher exchange programs are being organized.

   The same ideas can be observed in the cultural field. Cultural events, festivals, and exhibitions between the two countries are strengthening the friendship and cooperation between the peoples.

   Another noteworthy aspect is that Kuwaiti companies are exploring investment opportunities in Uzbekistan’s energy sector, including renewable energy sources. Kuwaiti financial institutions are participating in financing large infrastructure and road construction projects in Uzbekistan.

   It is also encouraging that active communication has been established, especially between the foreign ministries of the two countries. On November 21, 2024, the Foreign Minister of Uzbekistan, Bakhtiyor Saidov, met with the Kuwaiti Minister of Finance and the State Minister for Economic Affairs and Investments, Nura Sulaymon Al-Fassam, to discuss economic cooperation.

   In this meeting, "green" energy, industrial cooperation, agriculture, transport and logistics, infrastructure, urban planning, healthcare and tourism were defined as the priority areas for practical cooperation.

   Our President proposed establishing mechanisms such as the Investment Platform and Business Council to promote joint projects. As a result, an agreement was reached to open a trade house in Al-Kuwait.

   As part of the new partnership program, special attention was given to expanding the project portfolio with the Kuwait Arab Economic Development Fund. Moreover, Uzbekistan and Kuwait agreed to hold cultural and tourism weeks, and assist the active participation of representatives from both countries in cultural-humanitarian events in the fields of art, music, cinema, education, and sports. The importance of continuing mutual support within organizations such as the United Nations, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and the Non-Aligned Movement was emphasized during the meeting.

  Another significant point discussed during the meeting was the preparation for and the organization of the "Central Asia - Gulf Arab States Cooperation Council" summit, which will be held in Samarkand in May of this year. At the conclusion of the negotiations, the President of Uzbekistan invited the Emir of Kuwait to visit our country.

   The cooperation between Uzbekistan and Kuwait in political, economic, investment, and cultural spheres will continue to develop actively, strengthening the relations between the two countries, and we will certainly see practical results in the near future.