Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Kuwait for two days, the first such visit by an Indian prime minister in over 40 years. He will meet with the Emir and other top leaders to enhance bilateral relations, explore new opportunities in trade and defense, and engage with the Indian community. The visit aims to strengthen ties and foster increased cooperation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a significant two-day visit to Kuwait, marking the first trip by an Indian prime minister in over four decades. Scheduled to commence on Saturday, this historic visit includes crucial meetings with the Emir, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, as well as discussions with Kuwait’s Crown Prince and its Prime Minister. These engagements aim to assess and enhance collaborative efforts in various sectors including trade, investment, energy, and cultural exchanges.
In addition to high-level meetings, Prime Minister Modi will visit an Indian labor camp, engage with the Indian community at a special event named ‘Hala Modi,’ and attend the Gulf Cup football tournament’s opening ceremony. The ministry of external affairs has expressed anticipation that this visit will establish a new chapter in India-Kuwait relations, reinforcing the already strong ties and exploring future opportunities.
During a media briefing, Arun Kumar Chatterjee, Secretary for Overseas Indian Affairs, emphasized that discussions are underway for a bilateral investment treaty and a defense cooperation agreement. Additionally, the visit is expected to strengthen India’s ties with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), a consortium of nations that includes Kuwait, which currently chairs the group.
This visit is poised to reinvigorate the diplomatic and economic relationship between India and Kuwait, which has historically been strong yet underutilized in recent times. The last visit by an Indian prime minister occurred in 1981, demonstrating a significant gap and the need for renewed engagement. Prime Minister Modi’s discussions will likely focus on enhancing trade, addressing investment opportunities, and increasing collaboration on energy needs. With India being a vital trading partner for Kuwait, and a significant expatriate community residing there, the visit aims to solidify and advance this crucial relationship.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming visit to Kuwait represents a historical and vital opportunity to strengthen India-Kuwait relations. By fostering discussions in key areas such as trade and investment and engaging with the Indian diaspora, the visit is expected to enhance partnerships that have been nurtured over decades. This engagement could lead to new collaborations that support mutual growth and prosperity for both nations.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com