Benaulim MLA Captain Venzy Viegas

Panjim, India, Jan 17: During the ongoing Winter Session of the Goa Legislative Assembly, Benaulim MLA Shri Venzy Viegas formally raised the demand for a direct flight connection between Kuwait and Goa, citing its importance for the Goan diaspora and the state’s tourism and economic growth.

Speaking during the discussion on Civil Aviation, Viegas said thousands of Goans working in Kuwait currently face long travel times due to the absence of a direct air route. He noted that a direct flight would significantly ease travel, reduce costs, and strengthen people-to-people ties between the two regions.

Responding to the issue, Chief Minister Shri Pramod Sawant assured the House that the government would actively pursue the matter with the relevant authorities.

The proposal has gained traction following Viegas’s recent visit to Kuwait, where he attended Goa Day celebrations as Chief Guest, organised by the Goan Cultural Centre (GCC) Kuwait. During the visit, Viegas, along with GCC President, met Shri Sanjay Maluka, Charge d’Affaires at the Indian Embassy in Kuwait, and submitted a formal request seeking diplomatic support to facilitate a direct air link.

Apart from benefiting the Goan community in Kuwait, the proposed route is expected to boost tourism by providing easier access for Kuwaiti nationals and residents to visit Goa. Improved air connectivity could also enhance trade and strengthen bilateral relations between Goa and Kuwait.

Reacting to the development, Shri Carmo Santos, President of Goan Cultural Center, thanked Shri Venzy Viegas for consistently raising the issue and following it up on the floor of the House.