Diplomatic Corps hosts farewell ceremony for Iraqi Ambassador

Ambassador of Tajikistan and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps H.E. Zubaydullo Zubaydzoda hosted a farewell ceremony for outgoing Iraqi Ambassador H.E. Al-Manhal Al-Safi at the St. Regis Hotel last week..

The event was attended by ambassadors, representatives of accredited diplomatic missions, and representing Kuwait was Fahad Al-Riyahi from the Protocol Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

In his opening remarks, Ambassador Zubaydzoda noted that the gathering followed the resumption of diplomatic activities after the summer break and highlighted the significance of honoring Ambassador Al-Safi’s five years of service in Kuwait.

Ambassador Zubaydzoda expressed sadness at bidding farewell to his dear colleague and friend, noting that Ambassador Al-Safi’s tenure in Kuwait was marked by dedication and a positive impact on bilateral relations. He praised his insightful leadership, which helped bridge differences, facilitated numerous high-level visits, and opened broader horizons for cooperation.

He noted that Ambassador Al-Safi played a pivotal role in revitalizing joint technical committees, particularly those on border demarcation, security, missing persons, and archives, while also advancing negotiations on new memoranda of understanding and enhancing discussions on outstanding political issues.

On the security front, the Tajik ambassador noted that Ambassador Al-Safi strengthened military and security cooperation, especially in border protection and expertise exchange, and made tangible progress in extradition and asset recovery cases.

Economically, Al-Safi promoted investment, established new partnerships, and facilitated business operations, reflected in increased bilateral trade and eased entry for Iraqi citizens into Kuwait. He also welcomed over 17,000 visitors for the 26th Gulf Cup, overcoming earlier restrictions, and oversaw the issuance of tens of thousands of religious visas annually to Kuwaiti citizens.

Culturally, his efforts enriched people-to-people ties through active participation in Kuwaiti society and organizing cultural, artistic, and sporting exchanges that deepened fraternal bonds between both nations.

For his part, Ambassador Al-Safi expressed gratitude to the Kuwaiti government and people, calling for continued cooperation and strong brotherly ties. He highlighted achievements during his service, including expanding trade exchange, boosting bilateral relations, and working to resolve outstanding issues through governmental and public cooperation. He stressed that Iraqi-Kuwaiti relations will remain strong, striving for security and stability, while commending ambassadors, diplomats, and Kuwaiti society for supporting his mission.