Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent two-day visit to Kuwait marked a historic milestone in India-Kuwait relations, as it was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in 43 years. The last such visit was by Indira Gandhi in 1981. This momentous occasion underscored the evolving partnership between the two nations, deeply rooted in shared history, culture, and mutual respect.
Upon his arrival at Bayan Palace on Sunday, PM Modi was accorded a ceremonial guard of honor, reflecting the warm ties between the two nations. Adding to the significance of the visit, Kuwait’s Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah conferred upon PM Modi the country’s highest civilian honor, The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer.
This prestigious knighthood order, previously awarded to global leaders like Bill Clinton, Prince Charles, and George Bush, symbolizes friendship and respect. With this recognition, PM Modi’s tally of international honors reached 20, highlighting his role in fostering India’s global relationships.
During the visit, PM Modi held extensive talks with the Amir, Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah, and his Kuwaiti counterpart. These discussions elevated India-Kuwait relations to the status of a strategic partnership.
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The dialogue focused on several key areas, including:
- Information Technology and FinTech: Enhancing digital collaboration and technological innovation.
- Pharmaceuticals: Strengthening India’s role as a reliable supplier of affordable medicines.
- Infrastructure Development: Exploring opportunities for investments and projects to support Kuwait’s modernization goals.
- Security: Bolstering cooperation in combating terrorism and ensuring regional stability.
Expressing optimism about the future of India-Kuwait ties, PM Modi wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “Excellent meeting with His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah. We discussed cooperation in key sectors like pharmaceuticals, IT, FinTech, infrastructure, and security. In line with the close ties between our nations, we have elevated our partnership to a strategic one, and I am optimistic that our friendship will flourish even more in the times to come.”
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PM Modi also took the opportunity to express gratitude to the Emir for his continued support for the welfare of the Indian community in Kuwait. The Gulf nation is home to a vibrant and thriving Indian diaspora, which plays a vital role in strengthening the cultural and economic bridge between the two countries.
Kuwait remains a critical trade partner for India. Bilateral trade between the two nations was valued at $10.47 billion during the financial year 2023–24. The Gulf nation ranks as India’s sixth-largest supplier of crude oil, meeting 3% of its energy needs.
Indian exports to Kuwait have also grown significantly, crossing the $2 billion mark for the first time. Meanwhile, the Kuwait Investment Authority has invested over $10 billion in India, underscoring the mutual trust and economic collaboration between the two countries.
PM Modi highlighted these economic ties in his message on X: “India and Kuwait share multifaceted ties rooted in history, culture, and mutual respect. Our strong relations extend across energy, trade, and investments. We also have a vibrant Indian diaspora strengthening the friendship further.”
The discussions between PM Modi and Kuwait’s leadership reflect a shared commitment to taking bilateral relations to new heights. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “The talks focused on exploring ways to take India-Kuwait ties to new heights.”
This strategic partnership signals a brighter future for cooperation across sectors, further cementing the bond between the two nations.