Prime Minister Modi Strengthens India-Kuwait Relations During Historic Visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kuwait marked the first by an Indian leader in 43 years. Modi received a ceremonial welcome and guard of honour, emphasizing the deep historical ties and potential for growing trade and cultural relations. He highlighted the role of the Indian diaspora and future collaborations in energy and infrastructure, aligning India’s economic vision with Kuwait’s development goals.

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit to Kuwait, he was honored with a ceremonial welcome and a guard of honour on his second day. Modi’s two-day state trip marks the first visit by an Indian prime minister to Kuwait in 43 years, following an invitation from Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. The prime minister expressed his commitment to strengthen bilateral ties based on trade, culture, and investment, emphasizing the deep-rooted relationship between the countries.

In his interactions, PM Modi highlighted the significant presence of the Indian diaspora in Kuwait, which is the largest expatriate community comprising over a million individuals. He acknowledged the contributions of Indian workers and pledged to enhance collaboration in areas such as energy and infrastructure. Moreover, Modi spoke about the growing bilateral trade, noting the importance of diversifying economic interactions beyond oil.

During interviews with the Kuwait News Agency, Modi noted that India’s rising economic stature—the country having climbed from the 11th to the 5th largest economy—aligns with Kuwait’s Vision 2035. He expressed optimism for future partnerships that will foster sustainable growth and development.

As he paved the way for a strategic partnership with Kuwait, Modi reaffirmed the cultural bonds shared by the nations through cinema and culinary traditions, reflecting a shared history and mutual respect. He articulated a vision for enhanced cooperation that would benefit both nations, marking his visit as a significant step towards solidifying India-Kuwait relations.

The visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Kuwait is a pivotal occasion that signals the strengthening of ties between India and Kuwait after more than four decades. Historically, the relationship between the two countries has been rooted in trade, cultural exchanges, and a significant Indian presence in Kuwait, making this visit critical in re-establishing and expanding those connections. The visit is significant not only for diplomatic relations but also in the context of India’s broader engagement strategy in the Gulf region, which is pivotal for economic and energy security.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kuwait has underscored the importance of enhancing bilateral relations between India and Kuwait, focusing on trade, cultural ties, and the role of the Indian diaspora. His engagements have laid the groundwork for a stronger partnership reflective of mutual benefits and shared historical connections. As both nations seek to navigate their future collaboratively, the strategic dialogue initiated during this visit is expected to yield significant advancements in various sectors, driving growth and prosperity.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com