Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a two-day historic visit to Kuwait, the first by an Indian premier in 43 years. He inaugurated the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup as the guest of honour, met with the Kuwaiti Emir, and addressed the Indian diaspora, highlighting their contributions. Further meetings with Kuwaiti leadership are planned for the next day.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced his two-day visit to Kuwait, marking a historic occasion as it is the first visit by an Indian premier to the Gulf nation in 43 years. During this visit, PM Modi was the esteemed ‘guest of honour’ at the opening ceremony of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup held at the Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium in Kuwait City, where he engaged with the Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah.
In a social media post shared on X, PM Modi expressed his pleasure in meeting the Emir, stating, “Glad to have met His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah during the opening ceremony of the Arabian Gulf Cup.” The occasion provided both leaders an invaluable opportunity for informal dialogue, further strengthening India-Kuwait relations.
The Arabian Gulf Cup is a prestigious biennial football tournament featuring eight participating nations, including GCC members, Iraq, and Yemen. PM Modi conveyed his best wishes to all teams involved in the competition. Earlier in the day, he spoke to a large gathering of the Indian diaspora in Kuwait at a dedicated event termed ‘Hala Modi’ held at the Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Indoor Sports Complex.
Addressing the attendees, Prime Minister Modi acknowledged the significant contributions of the Indian community to global developments, emphasizing India’s potential to become the “skill capital of the world.” He stated, “You have added an Indian touch to Kuwaiti society…,” highlighting the cultural and professional integration of Indians within Kuwaiti society. The Prime Minister also invited the Indian diaspora to actively participate in India’s journey towards development by 2047.
Scheduled meetings with the Emir, Crown Prince, and Prime Minister of Kuwait are set to take place on the following day, further reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two nations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kuwait represents a significant diplomatic milestone as it is the first time in over four decades that an Indian prime minister has engaged with the nation. The Arabian Gulf Cup, which PM Modi attended, is a key sporting event in the region, reflecting the importance of cultural exchanges through sports. Additionally, the Prime Minister’s outreach to the Indian diaspora highlights the substantial presence and contribution of Indian nationals in Kuwait, showcasing India’s soft power and multicultural integration in the Gulf region.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kuwait is a landmark event in Indian foreign relations, underscoring the importance of sports and cultural diplomacy. By attending the opening of the Arabian Gulf Cup and engaging with the Indian diaspora, PM Modi has reinforced India’s commitment to fostering strong ties with Kuwait. The visit not only emphasizes the significance of bilateral cooperation but also highlights the integral role of the Indian community in Kuwait’s socio-economic landscape.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
