KUWAIT: The Ambassador of Russia to Kuwait Vladimir Zheltov expressed his country’s appreciation for Kuwait’s balanced approach to Ukrainian-Russian crisis. Russian ambassador affirmed his country’s keenness to participate in the dialogue in the upcoming consultations involving Ukraine, Russia, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in Doha, Qatar, which will address the ongoing conflict and explore diplomatic solutions.

At the ceremony held by the Russian embassy to celebrate its National Day, the Russian ambassador highlighted the strong and multifaceted cooperation between the two countries, noting that they share common interests and collaborate productively in various fields such as trade, economics, energy, and the military-technical sector.

He emphasized the significance of their partnership on the humanitarian level, underscoring the breadth and depth of their bilateral relations, saying “Regarding the situation in Gaza, there have been continuous meetings aimed at addressing the crisis. Last October, Russia, as a member of the Security Council, took the initiative to submit a draft resolution to halt the Zionist military operation.

Kuwait was among the first countries to support and adopt this draft. However, the resolution faced a significant setback due to a veto imposed by the United States.” Regarding Kuwaiti investments in Russia, he said that due to the imposed American and European sanctions, most of the investments are currently on hold but will return soon.

As for tourism, the Russian ambassador confirmed that the number of Kuwaitis who visit his country annually is approximately 10,000 and tend to visit Moscow not only in the summer but in all seasons, even at the lowest temperatures. “I admire the love Kuwaitis have for Moscow. Many Kuwaitis come to Russia even in the coldest temperatures, and there is a Kuwaiti friend who always goes to Moscow to practice swimming under the ice.”

In a press statement, Assistant Foreign Minister for European Affairs Ambassador Sadiq Marafi praised the bilateral relations between the two countries, noting the passage of more than 61 years since their inauguration, with Kuwait being the first Gulf country to establish relations with the Soviet Union. He emphasized Kuwait’s commitment to coordinating and cooperating with Russia across various international forums, highlighting the enduring and strategic nature of their partnership.