Prime Minister Narendra Modi met 101-year-old former IFS officer Mangal Sain Handa in Kuwait at the request of Handa’s granddaughter. This meeting occurred during PM Modi’s first official visit to Kuwait in 43 years. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations and acknowledge the Indian diaspora’s significance in the region.
During his recent visit to Kuwait, Prime Minister Narendra Modi fulfilled a heartfelt request made by the granddaughter of Mangal Sain Handa, a 101-year-old former Indian Foreign Service officer. As he arrived in Kuwait, which marks his first official visit to the country in 43 years, PM Modi took the time to meet Mr. Handa, recognizing his long-standing admiration for the Prime Minister.
The granddaughter reached out via the social media platform X to humbly request that PM Modi meet with her grandfather, stating, “Humble request to Hon’ble PM @narendramodi to meet my 101-year-old Nanaji, ex-IFS officer, in Kuwait during tomorrow’s interaction with the Indian Diaspora. Nana @MangalSainHanda is a great admirer of yours.” This message highlights the personal connections that transcend such diplomatic visits.
While meeting Mr. Handa and other members of the Indian community, PM Modi expressed gratitude for the warmth of the Indian diaspora, which constitutes a substantial part of Kuwait’s demographic, representing 21 percent of the total population. The Prime Minister’s visit aims to strengthen not only bilateral ties in trade and security but also to promote shared interests in regional peace and stability.
Mangal Sain Handa’s son, Dilip Handa, emphasized the significance of this meeting, stating to ANI, “This is an experience of a lifetime. PM Modi said he especially came here to meet him (my father). We are grateful to Prime Minister Modi.” Overall, the visit showcases the importance of interpersonal diplomacy and the prevailing respect towards dedicated public servants.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit is historic as it revisits diplomatic ties that have flourished over generations. His previous remarks highlighted the enduring relationship between India and Kuwait, underlining the importance of this connection in addressing mutual interests regarding peace, security, and economic prosperity in the region.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Kuwait is notable for its historical significance as the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in over four decades. The last visit was conducted by Indira Gandhi in 1981. Kuwait hosts a large Indian diaspora, making up 21 percent of its population, with Indian nationals forming a considerable part of the workforce. This visit is expected to fortify not just trade relations but also strategic partnerships in the areas of defense and security as a response to evolving geopolitical dynamics.
In conclusion, PM Modi’s meeting with the 101-year-old ex-IFS officer Mangal Sain Handa emphasizes the personal connections that can arise from diplomatic missions. This visit, distinguished by its historical nature, seeks to reinforce the strategic and cultural ties between India and Kuwait while honoring the contributions of individuals like Mr. Handa. It reflects the commitment of India’s leadership to engage with the diaspora and to recognize the historical and ongoing relationship with Kuwait.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
