KUWAIT: Ambassador of the Czech Republic Juraj Chmiel highlighted the enduring ties between Kuwait and Czechia, mentioning that thousands of Kuwaitis visit the country annually to enjoy its renowned thermal baths and spas, with some even investing in them.

Speaking at an event held to mark Czechoslovak Independence Day, Chmiel expressed deep gratitude for the warm and historic relationship between the two countries, established in 1963. He recalled Czechia’s solidarity with Kuwait during the Iraqi invasion, when Czechs and Slovaks sent a specialized chemical defense and decontamination unit to help protect Kuwait’s sovereignty in 1990 and 1991.

This deployment marked Czechoslovak troops’ first engagement in an armed conflict since World War II, according to the ambassador. Continuing the legacy of Czech expertise, a Czech company is now actively involved in decontaminating Kuwaiti soil affected by the war, he added.

On the business side, Ambassador Chmiel mentioned the ongoing contributions of Czech expertise in Kuwait, pointing to a striking example of Czech craftsmanship in Kuwait City: Assima Mall hosts the world’s largest chandelier, made by Czech glass artisans and certified by the Guinness Book of Records. Another impressive chandelier can also be seen in the foyer of the Kuwait Investment Authority, showcasing Czechia’s globally acclaimed glass industry.

During his speech, Ambassador Juraj Chmiel also acknowledged the significance of Czechoslovak Independence Day, a celebration that holds deep historical meaning for the Czech people. “Celebrating the establishment of a state that no longer exists may seem unusual,” he said, “but October 28th, 1918, marked a pivotal moment for us.”

On that day, the Independent Czechoslovak State was founded, freeing the Czech people from the Austro-Hungarian Empire, transitioning to a republic. Slovakia, the other part of the new state, separated from Hungary and joined Czechs in a shared Slavic union. This “marriage,” as Chmiel called it, lasted until December 31, 1992, with only a brief interruption during World War II. On January 1, 1993, the peaceful split gave rise to two new nations, Czechia and Slovakia—an orderly and amicable separation, unlike many others.

Ambassador Chmiel spoke passionately about Czechia’s vibrant tourism scene, saying: “Czechia is so much more than just spas and thermal baths. We have a rich cultural heritage that includes historic castles, pristine rivers, scenic lakes, majestic mountains, ancient forest dams, mysterious caves, ski slopes, delicious cuisine, and charming cities filled with museums.” He highlighted how these diverse attractions make Czechia a unique and captivating destination for travelers worldwide.