Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a two-day visit to Kuwait, the first by an Indian premier in over four decades. His trip aims to enhance India-Kuwait relations through meetings with key leadership, community engagement, and discussions on trade and defense agreements. The visit will also emphasize support for the Indian diaspora in Kuwait, representing a significant portion of the country’s expatriate community.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced a significant two-day visit to Kuwait, marking the first trip by an Indian premier in over forty years. The last visit was by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1981. This momentous occasion is anticipated to strengthen India-Kuwait relations across various domains including trade, investment, and culture. During this visit, Modi will engage with prominent Kuwaiti leadership, including meetings with the Amir, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and the Crown Prince.
In addition to discussing political and economic ties, Modi plans to visit a labor camp housing Indian workers, where he will address concerns regarding the Indian diaspora. The visit will culminate in the ‘Hala Modi’ community event at the Sheikh Saad Al Abdullah Sports Complex, aimed at fostering connections between the Indian community and their homeland.
According to officials from the Ministry of External Affairs, this visit is expected to facilitate discussions on potential bilateral agreements, such as a bilateral investment treaty and a defense cooperation pact, which could enhance strategic partnership. Moreover, it is believed to bolster connections between India and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), of which Kuwait is currently chairing.
The significance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit lies not just in its rarity but also in the historical ties between India and Kuwait, which date back centuries. As one of Kuwait’s leading trading partners, India’s economic presence has been prominent, with bilateral trade worth approximately $10.47 billion in 2023-24. Moreover, approximately one million Indians represent the largest expatriate community in Kuwait, significantly contributing to the local economy. The anticipated discussions during this visit hope to modernize and expand the existing relationship, addressing both contemporary challenges and exploring opportunities for future cooperation.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Kuwait signifies a crucial step towards revitalizing and enhancing the longstanding India-Kuwait relationship. By opening dialogues on trade, investment, and cooperation in areas like defense and culture, the visit is poised to lay a foundation for a robust future partnership. Additionally, addressing the needs of the large Indian diaspora in Kuwait reflects India’s commitment to its citizens abroad, fostering stronger ties and community engagement.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
