Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Kuwait, where he met 101-year-old ex-IFS officer Mangal Sain Handa at the request of his granddaughter on social media. This marked the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in 43 years, emphasizing deep historical ties and the significant presence of the Indian diaspora in the country.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a significant visit to Kuwait, during which he befriended a remarkable individual—a 101-year-old former Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, Mangal Sain Handa. This meeting was facilitated by a heartfelt request from Mr. Handa’s granddaughter via the social media platform X. She humbly urged PM Modi to acknowledge her grandfather, a dedicated admirer of the Prime Minister, during his interaction with the Indian community in Kuwait.
Upon his arrival, PM Modi took the time to meet with Mr. Handa and several other esteemed members of the Indian diaspora. Dilip Handa, the son of Mangal Sain Handa, expressed profound gratitude, stating, “This is an experience of a lifetime. PM Modi said he especially came here to meet him (my father). We are grateful to Prime Minister Modi.” This meeting not only highlights the deep respect for elder statesmen among the Indian expatriate community, but also showcases PM Modi’s commitment to connecting with Indian citizens abroad.
PM Modi’s visit is particularly momentous as it marks the first visit to Kuwait by an Indian Prime Minister in 43 years. The last leader to do so was Indira Gandhi in 1981, emphasizing the significance of this occasion. Furthermore, the Indian community in Kuwait constitutes a substantial demographic, comprising approximately 21 percent of the total population, with Indian workers representing 30 percent of the workforce. This visit underscores the importance of India’s historical ties with Kuwait and the mutual interests that bind the two nations together.
Before departing for Kuwait, the Prime Minister remarked on the longstanding relationship between the two countries, stating, “We deeply value the historical connection with Kuwait that has been nurtured over generations. We are not just strong trade and energy partners but also have shared interest in peace, security, stability, and prosperity in the West Asia region.”
The context of this meeting lies within the framework of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s diplomatic endeavors to strengthen India’s ties with Kuwait. India enjoys a historical connection with this Gulf nation, boasting a vast Indian diaspora that plays a vital role in Kuwait’s economy. The labor force from India not only supports various sectors within the country but also significantly impacts the cultural landscape. PM Modi’s meeting with Mr. Handa represents an effort to connect with the Indian citizens residing in Kuwait, evidencing his government’s concern for and investment in the welfare of Indians abroad.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi’s meeting with the notable 101-year-old former IFS officer, Mangal Sain Handa, signifies the importance India places on its diaspora and its appreciation for its elder statesmen. This visit marks a historic occasion as it is the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over four decades, reaffirming India’s commitment to nurturing its relationship with Kuwait. The event has not only opened doors for dialogue on broader issues of security and trade but also highlighted the deep respect for the contributions of the Indian community in the region.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
