New Delhi: In a historic move, India and Kuwait have elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership following a series of high-level discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.
The talks, held at Kuwait’s Bayan Palace, marked a new chapter in the two nations’ long-standing ties.
During the meeting, Modi and the Emir discussed ways to enhance cooperation across multiple sectors, including information technology, pharmaceuticals, fintech, infrastructure, and security.
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The two leaders also took the opportunity to reaffirm their mutual commitment to furthering their economic and strategic interests.
Prime Minister Modi expressed his gratitude to the Kuwaiti leadership for ensuring the safety and well-being of over a million Indians living in Kuwait, while the Emir commended the significant contributions of the Indian expatriate community to the development of the Gulf nation.
Modi’s visit, which began on Saturday, is the first by an Indian prime minister to Kuwait in 43 years.
It highlights the deepening bilateral relationship between the two countries.
In addition to meeting the Emir, Modi also held discussions with Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah.
The prime minister engaged with the Indian diaspora during an event and visited an Indian labour camp, where he acknowledged the vital role of the expatriate community, the largest foreign group in Kuwait.
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India and Kuwait have shared strong economic ties for decades, with Kuwait ranking as one of India’s top trading partners.
Bilateral trade between the two countries was valued at USD 10.47 billion in 2023-24.
Kuwait also plays a key role in India’s energy security, being the sixth-largest supplier of crude oil, accounting for 3 percent of India’s energy needs.
Indian exports to Kuwait surpassed USD 2 billion for the first time, while the Kuwait Investment Authority has invested more than USD 10 billion in India, underscoring the robust economic collaboration between the two nations.
