Prime Minister Modi met 101-year-old ex-IFS officer Mangal Sain Handa in Kuwait at the request of his granddaughter. This historic meeting marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in 43 years, emphasizing the strong ties between India and Kuwait, especially due to the large Indian diaspora residing there.
During his recent visit to Kuwait, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had the honor of meeting Mangal Sain Handa, a 101-year-old former Indian Foreign Service officer. This meeting took place at the request of Mr. Handa’s granddaughter, who reached out via the social media platform X. The heartfelt appeal stated that Mr. Handa was a great admirer of Prime Minister Modi, prompting him to make a special visit just to meet the elder statesman after his arrival in the country.
The meeting was characterized by a warm atmosphere, with Mangal Sain Handa’s son, Dilip Handa, expressing profound gratitude for the Prime Minister’s gesture, which he referred to as “an experience of a lifetime.” This visit is particularly significant given that it marks the first time in 43 years that an Indian Prime Minister has set foot in Kuwait; the last visit being by Indira Gandhi in 1981. It highlights the enduring relationship between India and Kuwait, particularly as the Indian diaspora represents a substantial 21 percent of Kuwait’s total population.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Kuwait underscores the unique ties shared between India and the Gulf nation, which significantly hosts a large Indian population. Approximately 1 million Indians reside in Kuwait, constituting about 30 percent of the country’s workforce. The historical engagement between India and Kuwait has evolved beyond mere trade alliances, encompassing collaborative interests in peace and security within the West Asian region. Prime Minister Modi’s previous remarks noted the importance of these historical and bilateral connections, emphasizing the mutual interests of the two nations.
In summary, Prime Minister Modi’s meeting with the centenarian ex-IFS officer Mangal Sain Handa symbolizes the profound respect and connection between the Indian Prime Minister and the Indian diaspora abroad. This interaction not only strengthens diplomatic relations but also highlights the significance of the Indian community in Kuwait. Additionally, the Prime Minister’s visit marks a crucial milestone in enhancing ties between the two nations, fostering cooperation in various sectors such as trade and security.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
