Prime Minister Narendra Modi Strengthens India-Kuwait Relations During Historic Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit to Kuwait includes a ceremonial welcome and discussions on boosting bilateral ties. He engaged with the Indian community and emphasized the significant contributions of Indian workers. In an interview, he discussed the importance of trade and cultural connections, highlighting the ongoing efforts to elevate India-Kuwait relations across various sectors.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a historic two-day state visit to Kuwait, marking the first visit by an Indian prime minister to the Gulf nation in 43 years. Upon his arrival, he was warmly welcomed with a ceremonial guard of honour at Bayan Palace, accompanied by Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. This visit underscores the importance of the diplomatic and economic ties between India and Kuwait.
During his trip, PM Modi engaged with the Indian diaspora and attended the ‘Hala Modi’ event, emphasizing the contributions of Indian workers to Kuwait’s development. He expressed a vision for a prosperous India by 2027, recognizing the diligence of Indian expatriates who make up the largest foreign community in Kuwait. Modi highlighted the significance of the bilateral energy partnership and the increasing trade volume between the two countries.
In an interview with Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), PM Modi elaborated on the historical connections and the mutual advantages of the India-Kuwait relationship, mentioning that the Indian Rupee was once a legal tender in Kuwait, attesting to the integrated economies in the past. He noted progress in diversifying trade beyond oil, celebrating the presence of ‘Made in India’ products in the Kuwaiti market, particularly in automobiles and machinery.
The Prime Minister articulated his excitement for future conversations with the Amir regarding collaborations across various sectors, promising to enhance defence, trade, investment, and energy relations. He acknowledged that the relationship is advancing towards a strategic partnership, driven by shared visions and an expanding cultural bond, highlighted by the popularity of Indian cinema in Kuwait.
PM Modi concluded his remarks by affirming the deep-rooted connectivity between India and Kuwait, with expectations for continued growth in their partnership, benefiting both nations economically and culturally.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kuwait represents a significant milestone in diplomatic relations between India and the Gulf nation. This visit is noteworthy as it is the first by an Indian prime minister in more than four decades, emphasizing the renewed focus on strengthening bilateral ties. Historically, India and Kuwait have shared deep economic ties, with a substantial Indian expat community contributing to Kuwait’s development. The visit aims to explore opportunities in trade, energy, and cultural exchanges, enhancing the long-standing friendship between the two countries.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kuwait marks a pivotal moment in India-Kuwait relations, with an emphasis on deepening economic, cultural, and diplomatic ties. The discussions on trade diversification and the potential for strategic partnerships in various sectors highlight the commitment of both nations to fostering mutual growth and cooperation. Modi’s engagement with the Indian community in Kuwait further underscores the strength of cultural links, paving the way for sustained collaboration in the years to come.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
