The Times Kuwait Report
After more than a decade at the forefront of Tajikistan-Kuwait relations, Tajikistan’s Ambassador to Kuwait and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Zubaydullo Zubaydzoda, is bidding farewell to a country he says transformed from a diplomatic posting into a deeply personal chapter of his life.
As he prepares to conclude his tenure in Kuwait, Ambassador Zubaydzoda reflected with emotion and gratitude on years marked by expanding bilateral cooperation, cultural closeness, and what he described as the extraordinary warmth of the Kuwaiti people.
“Kuwait was never just a place of work for me,” he said. “It became a second home one that embraced me and my family with generosity, dignity, and affection.”
Since arriving in Kuwait in 2013 as Tajikistan’s first resident ambassador, Zubaydzoda has overseen a significant strengthening of relations between the two countries, helping guide cooperation into new areas spanning diplomacy, trade, development, tourism, investment, security, and cultural exchange.
Over the course of his mission, he also emerged as one of the diplomatic community’s most respected figures, eventually serving as Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Kuwait a role reflecting the esteem he earned among fellow ambassadors and Kuwaiti institutions alike.
Looking back on his diplomatic journey, the ambassador described Kuwait as one of the finest environments for diplomatic service anywhere in the world. He praised the country’s balanced political approach, diplomatic wisdom, and longstanding commitment to dialogue, moderation, and international cooperation under the leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah.
“Kuwait enjoys tremendous respect regionally and internationally because of its wise leadership and its commitment to peace, stability, and constructive engagement,” he said. Yet beyond politics and diplomacy, it was the human dimension of Kuwait that left the deepest impression on him. “The greatest treasure of Kuwait is its people,” he said.
“I will miss the warmth of human relationships here. the generosity, hospitality, and spirit of brotherhood that I experienced throughout my years in the country.” He said Kuwait’s famous diwaniyas would remain among his fondest memories, describing them as a powerful reflection of the country’s cultural identity, openness, and social traditions.
A decade of expanding ties
Ambassador Zubaydzoda’s tenure coincided with a period of growing political and economic cooperation between Kuwait and Tajikistan. He credited the leadership of both countries, particularly Tajik President Emomali Rahmon and Kuwait’s leadership, for creating strong momentum in bilateral relations through high-level visits and sustained political engagement.
Among the milestones achieved during his mission were the signing of several bilateral agreements, deeper economic cooperation, and enhanced collaboration in regional and international forums.
He pointed in particular to the role of the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, which has supported major development and infrastructure projects in Tajikistan over the years. The ambassador also highlighted the importance of the Tajik-Kuwaiti Joint Committee for Trade, Economic, Technical, and Scientific Cooperation, describing it as a key mechanism for expanding bilateral engagement.
One of the most visible achievements of recent years, he noted, was the launch of direct flights between Kuwait and Dushanbe, significantly improving connectivity and people-to-people interaction.
He further emphasized growing cooperation between the two countries in multilateral diplomacy, especially within the United Nations, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the Asia Cooperation Dialogue.
He also praised Kuwait’s partnership with Tajikistan in organizing the Fourth High-Level International Conference on Counter-Terrorism and Border Security in November 2024.
Historic step: Kuwait embassy in Dushanbe
Perhaps the most symbolic achievement of his diplomatic mission, Ambassador Zubaydzoda said, is the imminent opening of a Kuwaiti embassy in the Tajik capital, Dushanbe. Describing the move as a “historic milestone,” he revealed that establishing a Kuwaiti diplomatic mission in Tajikistan had been one of his key goals since the beginning of his tenure.
“To witness this happening, even in the final days of my mission, is an achievement I deeply cherish,” he said. The opening of the embassy, he explained, would strengthen political dialogue and open new opportunities in trade, tourism, investment, and cultural cooperation.
Untapped opportunities ahead
Looking to the future, the ambassador expressed optimism about the next phase of Tajikistan-Kuwait relations, saying there remains enormous untapped potential between the two nations. He identified promising sectors including hydropower, food security, tourism, sustainable development, water cooperation, education, and security collaboration. While acknowledging logistical challenges due to Tajikistan’s landlocked geography, he stressed that stronger private-sector partnerships and direct institutional engagement could unlock major opportunities.
He also encouraged Kuwaitis to discover Tajikistan as a tourism destination. Known for its breathtaking mountain landscapes, clean environment, affordability, and safety, Tajikistan is increasingly positioning itself as an emerging destination for eco-tourism and family travel.
“Tajikistan welcomes Kuwaiti visitors with open arms,” he said. “It is an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and families looking for a peaceful and beautiful environment.”
Passing the torch
Ambassador Zubaydzoda also expressed confidence in his successor, Khusraw Noziri, describing him as a highly experienced diplomat with an impressive international background. Noziri previously served as First Deputy Foreign Minister of Tajikistan, ambassador to Egypt, Secretary-General of the Economic Cooperation Organization, and Deputy Secretary-General of the Islamic Organization for Food Security.
“With his diplomatic experience and professionalism, I am confident he will elevate relations between our countries to even greater heights,” he said.
Next chapter in Oman
Although departing Kuwait, Ambassador Zubaydzoda will remain in the Gulf region. He confirmed that he has been appointed Tajikistan’s ambassador to Oman by presidential decree and said he was honored to continue his diplomatic service in another Gulf nation.
As he concluded his farewell reflections, the ambassador delivered a message filled with gratitude and affection. “I leave Kuwait carrying immense appreciation and loyalty toward its wise leadership and noble people,” he said. “I sincerely wish this beloved country continued peace, prosperity, progress, and stability.”
