Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting Kuwait for two days, the first Indian Prime Minister to do so in 43 years. Meetings with the Amir and other leaders aim to enhance India-Kuwait relations, focusing on trade, investment, and cultural exchange. Discussions on a bilateral investment treaty and defense cooperation are also anticipated. Modi will engage with the Indian community and attend the Gulf Cup football tournament, underscoring the importance of this visit.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is embarking on a significant two-day visit to Kuwait, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in 43 years. During his visit, he is expected to interact with the Indian diaspora, engage with high-level Kuwaiti leadership, and participate in various cultural and community events. Notably, the Prime Minister will meet with Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Crown Prince, and the Prime Minister of Kuwait.
The Ministry of External Affairs anticipates that this visit will “open a new chapter” in India-Kuwait relations, focusing on enhancing trade, investment, energy cooperation, and cultural exchanges. Modi’s itinerary includes visiting a labour camp for Indian workers, addressing the Indian community at the “Hala Modi” event, and attending the Gulf Cup football tournament’s opening ceremony.
Significantly, discussions are underway regarding a bilateral investment treaty and a defence cooperation agreement that could elevate the relationship between India and Kuwait. Additionally, Modi’s visit is poised to strengthen ties with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which is essential given the sizeable trade volume—estimated at USD 184.46 billion in the last fiscal year—between India and GCC members.
The visit is historically significant as it is the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait since Indira Gandhi’s trip in 1981. Modi’s interactions are expected to enhance the existing partnership and potentially unlock new avenues for bilateral cooperation. Kuwait is a crucial ally, providing 3% of India’s energy needs and hosting over one million Indian expatriates, who form the largest expatriate community in the nation. The strengthening of India-Kuwait relations comes at a time when both nations are looking to expand their economic and cultural ties, reflecting a mutual interest in fostering collaboration across diverse sectors.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Kuwait signifies an important step toward revitalizing and strengthening India-Kuwait relations. The planned high-level meetings with Kuwaiti leaders, combined with the engagement of the Indian diaspora and potential treaties, highlight a mutual commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation in various fields. This visit not only aims to consolidate existing partnerships but also seeks to explore new opportunities for future collaboration.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
