PM Modi’s Historic Kuwait Visit Elevates Bilateral Ties to Strategic Partnership
Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his two-day “historic and successful” visit to Kuwait on Sunday, December 22, 2024, marking a transformative moment in India-Kuwait relations. The visit, the first by an Indian Prime Minister to the Gulf nation in 43 years, resulted in the elevation of the bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership, signaling a new era of cooperation and growth.
In a special gesture, Kuwaiti Prime Minister Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah personally bid farewell to Mr. Modi at the airport. Expressing gratitude, Mr. Modi posted on X, “Thank you Kuwait! This visit was historic and will greatly enhance our bilateral relations. I thank the Government and people of Kuwait for their warmth.”
Strategic Milestone
During his visit, Mr. Modi engaged in extensive talks with the Emir, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and other top leaders. Key areas of discussion included enhancing collaboration in information technology, pharmaceuticals, fintech, infrastructure, and security. A Memorandum of Understanding on defense cooperation was signed, further strengthening security ties and joint efforts to combat terrorism.
Kuwait joined the ranks of Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE by establishing a strategic partnership with India. This move is expected to bolster mutual interests in trade, investment, and energy, while also fostering collaboration in renewable energy, including green hydrogen and biofuel.
Trade and Investment
Bilateral trade between India and Kuwait reached $10.47 billion in FY 2023-24, with Indian exports crossing $2 billion for the first time. Kuwait, India’s sixth-largest crude oil supplier, expressed interest in expanding trade and investments. Prime Minister Modi invited the Kuwait Investment Authority, whose sovereign wealth fund exceeds $1 trillion, to explore opportunities in India.
Honoring a Legacy
Highlighting the deep historical and cultural ties between the nations, Kuwait conferred its highest civilian honor, The Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer, on Mr. Modi for his role in strengthening bilateral relations.
Indian Diaspora: A Living Bridge
Prime Minister Modi addressed the Indian community in Kuwait, which numbers over one million and is the largest expatriate group in the country. He visited an Indian labor camp and acknowledged their contributions to Kuwait’s national development.
Energy and Sustainability
Recognizing the importance of sustainable energy, Kuwait joined the International Solar Alliance. This collaboration signals a shared commitment to renewable energy and environmental sustainability.
As Mr. Modi departed for India, the Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal termed the visit “historic and successful,” underscoring its significance in enhancing India’s broader engagement with the Gulf region.
