Prime Minister Narendra Modi begins a two-day visit to Kuwait on Saturday, marking the first trip by an Indian premier to the Gulf nation in over four decades. The visit, at the invitation of the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, is expected to bolster India-Kuwait relations and explore new areas of cooperation.
This historic visit comes 43 years after the late Indira Gandhi visited Kuwait in 1981, followed by then Vice President Hamid Ansari’s visit in 2009.
Strengthening Strategic Ties
During his stay, Prime Minister Modi will hold talks with key Kuwaiti leaders, including the Amir, the Crown Prince, and the Prime Minister. These discussions aim to enhance collaboration in trade, investment, energy, culture, and people-to-people exchanges.
The Ministry of External Affairs has stated that the visit will “open a new chapter” in India-Kuwait relations. Arun Kumar Chatterjee, Secretary for Overseas Indian Affairs, noted, “This visit will consolidate existing partnerships and unveil new avenues for cooperation, reinforcing our shared values and building a dynamic future partnership.”
India and Kuwait are negotiating a bilateral investment treaty and a defense cooperation agreement, reflecting the growing strategic importance of their relationship.
Indian Diaspora Engagement
Prime Minister Modi is set to engage with the large Indian expatriate community, which constitutes over one million people in Kuwait. A major highlight is the ‘Hala Modi’ community event at the Sheikh Saad Al Abdullah Sports Complex. He will also visit a labor camp housing Indian blue-collar workers, emphasizing India’s commitment to its overseas citizens.
Boosting GCC Relations
This visit also aims to strengthen India’s ties with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), currently chaired by Kuwait. The GCC, comprising six member states, is a crucial economic and strategic partner for India. In 2022-23, India’s trade with GCC countries totaled $184.46 billion.
Economic Significance
Kuwait ranks among India’s top trading partners, with bilateral trade reaching $10.47 billion in 2023-24. Indian exports to Kuwait surged by 34.7% during the same period, reflecting the growing economic interdependence. Additionally, Kuwait is India’s sixth-largest crude oil supplier and a significant investor, with the Kuwait Investment Authority investing over $10 billion in India.
Cultural and Sporting Diplomacy
Prime Minister Modi will also attend the inauguration ceremony of the Arabian Gulf Cup, adding a cultural dimension to his visit.
Before departing, the Prime Minister expressed optimism about the trip, stating on X (formerly Twitter), “This visit will deepen India’s historical linkages with Kuwait. I look forward to meeting the Amir, the Crown Prince, and the Prime Minister of Kuwait.”
This landmark visit is set to redefine India-Kuwait relations, paving the way for a stronger partnership grounded in mutual respect and shared goals.
