Czech Republic issued around 6,000 visas to Kuwaiti citizens last year

The Czech Republic issued around 6,000 visas to Kuwaiti citizens last year,
The Czech Ambassador to Kuwait, H.E. Juraj Chmiel, affirmed the strength of bilateral relations between the State of Kuwait and the Czech Republic, describing them as excellent and steadily advancing.

He expressed his aspiration to elevate these relations to wider levels of cooperation and partnership across multiple sectors.

Speaking during a concert hosted at the Czech Embassy in the presence of several diplomats, Ambassador Chmiel highlighted ongoing efforts to update bilateral agreements and preparations to hold political consultations between the two countries, pending the finalization of an official date, reports Al-Jarida daily.

He stressed that such consultations reflect the depth of political relations and the shared desire to enhance dialogue and coordination, particularly amid current global challenges.

On tourism, the ambassador noted that the Czech Republic remains a key destination for Kuwaiti travelers, especially in the field of medical tourism.

He revealed that approximately 6,000 visas were issued by the embassy last year and announced the reopening of the visa facilitation center following renovation works, expressing optimism about increasing visitor numbers from Kuwait.

He pointed out that many Kuwaitis currently travel to the Czech Republic via other European hubs, such as Germany, due to flight availability. In this context, Ambassador Chmiel confirmed the resumption of direct flights operated by Jazeera Airways to Prague, with two flights per week starting May 23. He voiced hope that the service would continue year-round rather than being limited to the summer season.

Regarding bilateral cooperation, the ambassador revealed that work is underway on several new memoranda of understanding, including one in the health sector. He emphasized that cooperation extends beyond renewing existing agreements to launching new partnerships in vital and emerging fields.

On trade and investment, Chmiel acknowledged that the trade balance currently favors the Czech Republic, while expressing his desire to increase Kuwaiti exports and encourage Kuwaiti investors to explore opportunities in the Czech market, which he described as open and diverse.

He also noted that the Czech real estate market is accessible to foreigners, with several Kuwaitis already owning properties there, particularly in the healthcare and business sectors, stressing that ownership is permitted for all who meet legal requirements.