KUWAIT CITY, Dec 7: In a celebratory event organized by Azerbaijan's embassy, Ambassador Emil Karimov praised the robust bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Kuwait. The ambassador highlighted the deep connections in history, religion, culture, education, and agriculture, emphasizing the significant rapport between the two nations.

During the occasion marking the selection of the Azerbaijani city of Shusha as the "cultural capital of the Turkish world for the year 2023," Karimov noted that Azerbaijan has become a favored tourist destination for Kuwaitis. He revealed that more than 22 thousand Kuwaitis visited Azerbaijan last year, and over 25 thousand have already visited this year. Karimov explained the ease with which Kuwaitis can obtain visas either upon arrival at the airport or through the official website.

Looking ahead, the two countries are gearing up to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations in October. Karimov disclosed plans for an anticipated visit by the Azerbaijani Foreign Minister to Kuwait during the third meeting of the joint committee between the two nations at the ministerial level before the start of the summer.

Highlighting the extensive collaboration, Karimov mentioned the existence of over 20 agreements and memorandums of understanding covering various areas of bilateral cooperation. He stressed the untapped potential for expanding trade exchange, currently valued at around $200 million, and encouraged Kuwaiti investors to explore opportunities in Azerbaijan.

Turkish Ambassador to Kuwait, Tube Sönmez, echoed the sentiment of deep-rooted ties between Turkey and Azerbaijan. She emphasized the unwavering commitment to Azerbaijan's prosperity, particularly in the liberated lands of Karabakh and Shusha. Sönmez underscored the shared history, culture, and aspirations, portraying the two nations as essentially one.

Kyrgyz Ambassador Azamat Varagolov expressed gratitude for the fraternal relations, friendship, and mutual support with Azerbaijan, emphasizing their strategic partnership. Meanwhile, Kazakhstan's Ambassador Azamat Berdbay highlighted Azerbaijan's status as a strategic partner in the Turkish region, with a commitment to economic development evident in a 40% increase in trade exchange in 2022.

In a move of diplomatic significance, Kazakhstan announced the granting of Kuwait's membership in the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA). Ambassador Berdbay emphasized that Kuwait's inclusion would contribute to the development and strengthening of CICA's reputation and effectiveness in addressing global challenges.