During a historic two-day visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a ceremonial welcome in Kuwait, marking the first visit by an Indian leader in 43 years. Modi highlighted the importance of India-Kuwait relations, emphasizing trade, cultural ties, and the contributions of the Indian diaspora to Kuwait’s development. He expressed optimism about future collaborations in various sectors, including energy and investment, while linking the current partnership to long-standing historical connections.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a significant state visit to Kuwait, receiving an impressive ceremonial welcome and guard of honour at the Bayan Palace on the second day of his two-day engagement. This visit marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in over 43 years, reflecting the strengthening ties between India and the Gulf nation, invited by Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. Modi underscored the importance of bilateral trade and cultural connections, emphasizing the historical bond shared between the two countries and the contributions of the Indian diaspora to Kuwait’s development.
During his visit, PM Modi interacted with the Indian community in Kuwait, participating in an event dubbed ‘Hala Modi’, and discussed the contributions of Indian workers at the Gulf Spic Labour Camp. The Prime Minister linked their aspirations to his vision of a “Viksit Bharat 2027” and praised their commitment to improving Kuwait’s economy. In an interview with Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), he highlighted the growing trade between the two nations, identifying energy partnerships as a pivotal aspect of this relationship. He expressed pleasure in seeing an increase of ‘Made in India’ products in the region, particularly in automotive and engineering sectors.
Modi articulated hopes for elevating ties in numerous sectors, including defense, investment, and energy. He asserted that the historical friendship between India and Kuwait must translate into a productive and dynamic partnership for the 21st century. Mentioning that Indians constitute the largest expatriate community in Kuwait, Modi viewed Kuwait’s investments in India as part of a mutually beneficial economic collaboration. The Prime Minister further outlined India’s economic growth trajectory and its attractiveness for Kuwaiti investors, linking this to Kuwait Vision 2035, which aims at transforming Kuwait into an economic and connectivity hub.
Culturally, Modi pointed to shared cinematic and culinary traditions as evidences of mutual ties and expressions of Indian influences in Kuwaiti society. He stated the vital role of the Indian community in solidifying the strategic partnership between the two nations, emphasizing the importance of this diaspora’s contributions and the supportive recognition from Kuwaiti authorities. Modi concluded his visit with an optimistic outlook on future collaborations in power, trade, and cultural domains, reiterating the significance of these partnerships in fostering sustained growth.
The state visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Kuwait is a landmark occasion as it is the first visit by an Indian leader to the Gulf nation in 43 years. This visit signals an effort to strengthen and deepen the longstanding historical ties between India and Kuwait, focusing on trade, cultural exchanges, and the increasing presence of the sizable Indian expatriate community. Modi’s discussions with Kuwaiti leadership are aimed at enhancing cooperation in various sectors, particularly energy and investment, while also promoting cultural connections that have linked these nations for centuries. The strategic relationship is set against the backdrop of Kuwait’s Vision 2035, which aims to diversify its economy and enhance international investments. The Indian diaspora in Kuwait, which constitutes the largest expatriate community, plays a crucial role in building and maintaining the friendship between India and Kuwait. Modi’s visit is not only about bilateral discussions but also reflects India’s growing influence and presence in the Gulf region.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kuwait signifies a monumental step towards fortifying the intricate ties between India and Kuwait, rooted in a rich historical context. By receiving a guard of honour and engaging with both the local leadership and the Indian community, Modi emphasized priorities such as trade, energy cooperation, and cultural exchanges. His acknowledgement of the substantial contributions made by Indian expatriates underscores their pivotal role in enhancing bilateral relations. Looking ahead, the Prime Minister anticipates that this visit will catalyze greater partnerships, transcending traditional boundaries to achieve a more integrated and dynamic collaborative future.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
