KUWAIT CITY, Feb 8: The Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Kuwait Mohammad Totonji stated that the relations between the two countries have deep roots stretching back centuries, with Iranian builders playing a major role in the development and modernization of Kuwait. He expressed hope that, under the leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al- Jaber Al-Sabah and His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, a qualitative leap in their brotherly relations will occur, driven by the wisdom of both Iran and Kuwait’s leadership. Speaking at a press conference held at the embassy on the occasion of his country’s celebration of the 46th anniversary of the victory of the Islamic Revolution, Ambassador Totonji highlighted the recent official visits between the two countries, the most prominent of which were the meeting of the Iranian Coast Guard delegation in Kuwait and the joint consular committee meeting in Tehran.

Regarding the pending issues between the two countries, he indicated that consultations are ongoing, with some matters already addressed and others still under review, affirming that his country is committed to resolving all outstanding issues. Ambassador Totonji expressed his deep gratitude and appreciation to the concerned parties for their cooperation in the transfer of Iranian prisoners to Tehran, stressing that this collaboration will continue under the judicial cooperation agreement signed between the two countries. He also expressed the desire to develop land and sea transportation between the two countries, highlighting that it would enhance trade cooperation. The ambassador revealed plans to establish land transportation from Iran’s Shalamcheh port to Iraq’s Safwan port, and then to Abdali, which would help reduce shipping costs.

Regarding the ongoing restrictions on issuance of visas for Iranians and their families, Ambassador Totonji acknowledged that there are still obstacles in the issuance of entry visas for members of the Iranian community. He assured that efforts are being made with the relevant authorities to ease these procedures and remove obstacles, especially considering the good reputation of the Iranian community in Kuwait. On economic and trade relations between the two countries, Ambassador Totonji stated that efforts are underway to enhance trade exchange and establish stable markets for Iranian products in Kuwait. He revealed that trade exchange between the two countries has reached $350 million. Concerning Iran’s position on the current developments in Gaza and the ceasefire agreement, Ambassador Totonji said, “It is important to honor the memory of the martyrs of the resistance.” He stressed that the ceasefire is the result of the resistance, courage, and steadfastness of the Palestinian people in Gaza, who faced one of the largest massacres and forced displacements in history. Ambassador Totonji said, “Regarding the exchange of prisoners, we have clearly seen who the victor is and who the loser is.” He expressed hope that the agreedupon procedures would be fully implemented with the help of the international community and the active involvement of global leaders, as this would end the war and destruction in Gaza, launch reconstruction efforts, and alleviate the suffering of the resilient people.

When asked about the new Trump administration and its stance, particularly in light of recent developments, Ambassador Totonji said, “We have been informed of the new positions, and our colleagues in Tehran are studying them. I hope we will see serious initiatives from the current U.S. administration that go beyond mere statements. There must be practical initiatives, and they must be implemented on the ground.” Regarding the axis of regional policy, he affirmed that the priority is strengthening relations with neighboring countries and enhancing political and economic ties both within the region and with countries abroad. Ambassador Totonji highlighted that the strategy of the Islamic Republic of Iran revolves around dialogue, understanding, and the promotion of diplomacy and mutual respect to establish common ground with other countries, particularly the GCC nations, adding that this approach aims to usher in a new phase of prosperity in Iran’s relations with the GCC countries.

By Fares Al-Abdan
Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff