Prime Minister Modi’s Historic Visit to Kuwait: Strengthening Bilateral Relations
PM Narendra Modi’s visit to Kuwait marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 43 years. He engaged with cultural figures who translated major Indian epics into Arabic and emphasized strengthening India-Kuwait ties. The Indian community constitutes a significant part of Kuwait’s population and workforce, underlining the importance of this diplomatic engagement, which is expected to enhance bilateral trade relations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Kuwait for a two-day visit, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the nation in 43 years. His itinerary includes interactions with the Indian community and discussions with Kuwaiti leadership, highlighting his meeting with Abdulla Al Baroun and Abdul Lateef Al Nesef, key figures in the translation and publication of the Ramayana and Mahabharata in Arabic. PM Modi expressed his intention to strengthen the longstanding India-Kuwait ties during his engagements, including meetings with the Emir and Crown Prince of Kuwait.
The Prime Minister was warmly welcomed by Kuwaiti officials, including Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, and reiterated the importance of India’s relationship with Kuwait. He emphasized a comprehensive roadmap for future collaboration, recognizing the two nations’ shared values, including peace, security, and prosperity in the West Asia region. This visit stands as a testament to India-Kuwait’s deep-rooted connections, which trace back to the historical maritime trade between the two countries.
With the Indian community representing 21 percent of Kuwait’s population and composing 30 percent of its workforce, Indian expatriates play a vital role in the country’s demographic and economic landscape. The trade relations are significant, with bilateral trade reaching $10.47 billion for the financial year 2023-24, and Kuwait being a crucial supplier of crude oil for India.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kuwait represents a significant moment in India-Kuwait relations, which have historically been strong, stemming from pre-oil trade between the two nations. The visit aims to reinforce ties that span trade, energy, and cultural exchanges. PM Modi’s engagement with the translators of the Ramayana and Mahabharata in Arabic highlights the cultural bonds shared by both countries. Given that the Indian population comprises a substantial part of Kuwait’s demographic, this visit serves to further empower the Indian community’s role in Kuwait’s society and economy.
In summary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kuwait signifies an important milestone in enhancing India-Kuwait relations. With a focus on building a collaborative future, PM Modi’s meetings with key Kuwaiti leaders and his interaction with the Indian community are essential for fostering deeper ties. The historical and cultural connections, alongside strong economic relationships, underline the potential for future cooperation between the two nations.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
