KUWAIT CITY, Dec 19: Iraqi Ambassador to Kuwait Al-Manhal Al-Saficonfirmed that the seventh meeting of the technical committee on maritime border demarcation between Kuwait and Iraq, chaired by Kuwaiti Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad, was conducted in a positive atmosphere in Baghdad. In a press statement Thursday at the office of Bahraini Ambassador to Kuwait Salah Al-Maliki, Al-Safidisclosed “there is an agreement to continue as previously planned. God willing, everything is progressing well. The committee will meet every two months.”

He underscored the importance of the recent visit of Kuwait’s First Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Interior and Defense Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousuf to Basra Governorate. He considers the visit a significant step that reflects the strength of bilateral relations and the commitment of both country's leadership to develop ties. He pointed out that the opening of the Kuwait Government Surgical Hospital, funded by Kuwait through the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED), is a milestone in fostering fraternal relations between the two nations. He said Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousuf’s visit helped unlock new opportunities for trade and economic exchange. He praised the strong coordination between Kuwait and Iraq on political matters and the growing momentum toward investments in Iraq, supported by the Iraqi government. He credited the current stability in Iraq, under the leadership of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani, as a key factor in fostering this positive environment for investment and bilateral cooperation. He also emphasized the strategic importance of Basra, referring to it as an asset shared by Kuwait and Iraq. “With its rich history, Basra serves as a key commercial gateway to Iraq and a vital link between the two nations,” he asserted. He expressed confidence that both countries will continue to build on this foundation to improve their economic and trade relations.

Regarding the entry of Iraqi fans into Kuwait by land (with their cars) to support their national team, Al-Safistressed that the process is ongoing, with thousands of Iraqi fans crossing the border to enjoy the Gulf’s brotherly and festive atmosphere. He affirmed the deep affection Iraqi fans have for Kuwait and its heritage. The number of fans attending events will be determined by the seating capacity allocated to Iraqi supporters in the stadiums, though Al-Safi emphasized that no limit has been set. He lauded the robust arrangements in place to facilitate their entry, particularly the ‘Hayak App’ -- a welcoming electronic platform that has seen high registration numbers from fans eager to visit Kuwait.

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