Strengthening Ties with Gulf Nations, PM Modi to Make Historic Visit to Kuwait

New Delhi, Dec 20 (NationPress) Dedicated to nurturing time-honored and significant relations with all Gulf nations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to commence a two-day visit to Kuwait on Saturday - marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to this crucial West Asian country in 43 years.

India and Kuwait share traditionally close and friendly relations that are deeply rooted in history, bolstered by economic ties and strong connections among the people. India ranks among the top trading partners of Kuwait, and the Indian diaspora represents the largest expatriate community in the country. This visit is an opportunity to further enhance the diverse relationship between India and Kuwait,” stated the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in anticipation of PM Modi's historic trip.

During his stay, the Prime Minister will engage in discussions with Kuwait's leadership, including Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Emir of the State of Kuwait. He will also connect with the substantial Indian community residing in the country.

PM Modi will receive a Ceremonial Guard of Honour at the Bayan Palace, followed by private meetings with both the Emir and the Crown Prince of Kuwait. This will be succeeded by delegation-level discussions with the Prime Minister of Kuwait, where both parties will review the full scope of bilateral relations, including politics, trade, investment, energy, culture, and the steps required for further enhancement.

“India and Kuwait share an ancient bond defined by historical connections, robust economic interactions, and vibrant cultural ties,” remarked MEA Secretary (CPV & OIA) Arun Kumar Chatterjee during a press interaction on Friday.

Prior to the significant visit, the MEA highlighted the considerable transformation in India's relations with the Gulf region, noting that the PM has placed “special emphasis” on solidifying and deepening ties with Gulf nations.

Kuwait currently holds the presidency of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which includes the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar, and is the only GCC member that PM Modi has not yet visited since he took office in 2014. A planned visit in 2022 was postponed due to the Covid pandemic.

The Gulf nations are crucial trade and investment partners for India, and New Delhi has established a strong energy partnership with these countries.

During his visit, PM Modi will also interact with the Indian diaspora at a community event and visit a labor camp. Additionally, he will attend the inauguration of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup as a special guest of the Emir of Kuwait.

“The government of India places significant importance on the welfare of all overseas workers. We have a community of approximately one million Indians in Kuwait. The Prime Minister's visit to the labor camps aims to highlight the government's commitment to the welfare of our workers abroad,” Chatterjee added.

Earlier this month, during a visit to New Delhi, Kuwait's Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya extended an invitation for the Prime Minister to visit Kuwait “at the earliest opportunity,” which PM Modi graciously accepted.

Shortly after, during delegation-level discussions with External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar at the Hyderabad House, Al-Yahya referred to India as a “very important partner” and PM Modi as “one of the wisest individuals” in the world.

“I appreciate the invitation and the chance to meet Prime Minister Modi, whom we regard as one of the wisest figures globally. I am confident that the Prime Minister will elevate India's standing, and we view India as a very important partner,” stated the visiting Foreign Minister during the December 4 meeting.

In September, PM Modi met with Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, Crown Prince of Kuwait, on the sidelines of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly in New York, marking the first interaction between the two leaders.

Reflecting on the strong historical links and people-to-people connections between the two nations during their meeting, PM Modi expressed that India holds “utmost importance” for its relations with Kuwait.

The MEA later indicated that the upcoming meeting between the two countries' leadership is anticipated to generate a “fresh momentum” in bilateral ties.

“They acknowledged with satisfaction that both nations were supporting each other with energy and food security needs. They affirmed their commitment to deepen and diversify bilateral ties for mutual benefit,” the MEA stated on September 22, 2024.

During his discussions with the visiting Kuwait Foreign Minister, PM Modi reiterated his confidence that the close cooperation between India and the Gulf Cooperation Council will be further strengthened under Kuwait’s ongoing presidency of the GCC.

As they shared insights regarding the situation in West Asia, they expressed their support for the prompt restoration of peace, security, and stability in the region. PM Modi expressed gratitude towards the leadership of Kuwait for taking care of the significant Indian community residing there.

Following the meeting, EAM Jaishankar and Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya reaffirmed their mutual commitment to enhancing stability and security in the region and globally.

“After the meeting, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed to establish a joint committee for bilateral cooperation between the State of Kuwait and the Republic of India, showcasing the determination of both friendly nations to elevate their relations to higher, broader, and more comprehensive levels,” Kuwait's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated.