‘Visa waiver for Kuwaiti fans positive step'
KUWAIT CITY, March 20: Iraqi Ambassador to Kuwait Al-Munhal Al-Safi said the Iraqi Embassy hosted a reception at its diwaniya for well-wishers celebrating the holy month of Ramadan. In a press statement following the reception that took place recently in the presence of several royal family members, officials, ambassadors, members of the diplomatic corps, prominent figures, business leaders and representatives from all segments of the Kuwaiti society Al-Safi expressed his gratitude to all those who attended the event. Meanwhile, in response to a question about the recent visit of Assistant Undersecretary for Bilateral Relations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Mohammad Bahr Al-Uloom Al-Safi described the visit as 'brotherly' and expressed optimism that such visits will continue in the near future.
On the other hand, Advisor to the Amiri Diwan Sheikh Faisal Al-Humoud Al-Malik shared his happiness over attending the reception. He prayed for the enduring brotherhood, friendship and love between the two nations. 'Kuwait and Iraq are brothers and neighbors with a long-standing relationship. Inshallah, this bond will remain strong forever,' he said. He emphasized that the two countries' relationship is both geographically and brotherly rooted, likening it to that of 'uncle and nephew,' stressing it is built on mutual respect. On the upcoming Kuwait-Iraq football match Sheikh Faisal wished success to both teams indicating 'there are no losers in such a match. However, I do hope for a victory for Kuwait.'
Sheikh Khaled Al-Bader Al-Mohammad also spoke at the event, affirming it is an honor to attend the reception at the invitation of the Iraqi Ambassador. 'We are delighted to meet and connect with our diplomatic and Kuwaiti brothers,' he said. He then expressed his Ramadan greetings to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and HH the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah. He praised Iraq's initiative to waive visa requirements for Kuwaiti football fans, calling it a positive step. 'Had we been hosting the tournament, we would have taken the same approach to ensure its success. Kuwait will always welcome them as they would in their second home,' he asserted. Describing the match between the Iraqi and Kuwaiti national teams as a 'meeting of brothers;' he added 'this is a victory regardless of which team wins. Any country that advances to the finals represents the other, as we share the same hopes and aspirations.'
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