The Times Kuwait Report
The Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador of Tajikistan to Kuwait, Dr. Zubaidullah Zubidov, affirmed that relations between Kuwait and Tajikistan are witnessing rapid growth, strengthened by the close ties between the leaderships of both countries.
He emphasized that Kuwait is considered “one of Tajikistan’s most trusted partners in the region,” noting that the friendship between His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah and Tajik President Emomali Rahmon has played a “vital role” in elevating bilateral cooperation to unprecedented levels.
Speaking to journalists on the occasion of his country’s National Day, Zubaydov recalled that Kuwait was among the first countries worldwide to recognize Tajikistan’s independence in 1991, and the first Arab country to receive an official visit by the Tajik president after independence.
Diplomatic relations were officially established on 31 March, 1995, laying a solid foundation for strong political cooperation built on mutual trust and respect.
Zubaydov noted that while political relations between the two countries are considered exemplary, economic cooperation “has not yet reached the desired level,” despite the vast opportunities available in trade, investment, energy, tourism, and infrastructure.
He stressed that the relevant authorities in both countries are working seriously to enhance economic partnerships in line with the aspirations of the two leaderships and peoples.
The ambassador highlighted the importance of President Rahmon’s official visit to Kuwait from 3 to 5 November, 2024, during which he met His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled, and senior Kuwaiti officials. The visit resulted in the signing of several key agreements that opened a new phase of cooperation in economy, trade, and investment.
Zubaydov also praised the significant role of the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, describing Kuwaiti support for infrastructure and development projects in Tajikistan as a cornerstone of the long-standing bilateral partnership.
On international affairs, the ambassador stated that both countries maintain close cooperation within regional and international organizations, including the United Nations, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the Asia Cooperation Dialogue, and the Gulf Cooperation Council, noting a strong alignment or convergence of positions on various global and regional issues.
Reflecting on his country’s national occasion, Zubaydov reviewed Tajikistan’s journey since its independence on 9 September 1991, He explained that the Tajik people “restored their national state after thousands of years, grounded in the traditions of the powerful Samanid State.”
He said independence marked a historic turning point that enabled the country to strengthen national unity and build a modern, democratic, and socially-oriented state.
He affirmed that the efforts of President Emomali Rahmon were “decisive” in establishing the pillars of the independent state, and that Tajikistan has achieved notable economic and social progress over the past three decades despite regional and global challenges.
Zubaydov emphasized that the Tajik government places its people at the center of its development strategy, investing in education, health, culture, and youth development. He added that the country’s “open-door policy” has made Tajikistan “closer to the world, and the world closer to Tajikistan,” enhancing its global standing—especially in areas related to water, climate, and the protection of glaciers.
