Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day visit to Kuwait marks a historic moment, being the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Gulf nation in 43 years. The visit, aimed at fortifying diplomatic and economic ties, saw significant engagements with Kuwaiti leadership and the Indian diaspora.
Key Highlights of PM Modi’s Kuwait Visit
- Meeting with Kuwaiti Leadership:
PM Modi is scheduled to meet Crown Prince Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah on the final day of his visit. Discussions are expected to result in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance bilateral relations. Kuwait is a key trade partner for India, being the sixth-largest crude oil supplier, meeting 3% of India’s energy needs.The visit, at the invitation of Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, is a testament to the enduring friendship between the two nations. - Inauguration of the Arabian Gulf Cup:
On the first day, PM Modi attended the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup opening ceremony as the chief guest at the Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium. The event, attended by Kuwait’s Emir, Crown Prince, and Prime Minister, offered an opportunity for informal discussions with Kuwaiti leaders. - Address to the Indian Community:
At the ‘Hala Modi’ event in Kuwait City, PM Modi addressed a large gathering of Indian expatriates, praising their contributions to global growth and Kuwait’s development. “India has the potential to become the skill capital of the world,” he declared, lauding the diaspora for adding a “mini-Hindustan” touch to Kuwaiti society.He emphasized the strong civilizational and emotional bonds between India and Kuwait, rooted in shared history, trade, and cultural exchanges. - Visit to Labour Camp:
Modi’s visit to the Gulf Spic Labour Camp, housing 1,500 Indian workers, highlighted his commitment to the welfare of Indian workers abroad. He interacted with workers from various Indian states, enquiring about their well-being and sharing snacks with them. - Honoring Cultural Contributors:
PM Modi met with a 101-year-old former Indian Foreign Service officer and Kuwaiti nationals who translated Indian epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata into Arabic, reflecting cultural diplomacy efforts. - Tribute to Workers’ Sacrifice:
The visit comes months after a devastating fire in Mangaf, Kuwait, claimed the lives of over 45 Indians. Modi’s visit to the labour camp underscored his concern for the safety and well-being of Indian workers in Kuwait. - Strengthening Economic and Cultural Bonds:
With Indians constituting 21% of Kuwait’s population and 30% of its workforce, the visit reinforced India’s commitment to supporting the diaspora and enhancing economic cooperation.
A Historic Visit
This visit, the first by an Indian Prime Minister since Indira Gandhi’s trip in 1981, aims to chart a roadmap for a future-oriented partnership. It highlights the mutual respect and shared vision between India and Kuwait, paving the way for strengthened ties in trade, energy, and cultural exchange.
As PM Modi departs Kuwait, the visit is set to leave a lasting impact on India-Kuwait relations, celebrating a partnership that goes beyond diplomacy to encompass deep-rooted connections of heart and history.
Sources By Agencies
