PM Narendra Modi’s historic Kuwait visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties, celebrate the Indian diaspora, and promote non-oil trade diversification. The Prime Minister emphasized labor welfare, cultural connections, and strategic partnerships in energy and investment during his meetings with Kuwaiti leaders, marking a significant step in India-Kuwait relations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day visit to Kuwait marked a historic first for an Indian leader in 43 years, emphasizing the enhancement of bilateral relations through trade and cultural exchange. On the first day, after receiving a warm welcome from dignitaries including Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, he prioritized meeting the Indian diaspora and visiting a labor camp in Mina Abdullah to address the welfare of Indian workers abroad. During this visit, he highlighted India’s commitment to diversifying non-oil trade with Kuwait, focusing on pharmaceuticals, digital innovation, and textiles.
The ‘Hala Modi’ event allowed the Prime Minister to acknowledge the contributions of the Indian community, which he referred to as a ‘mini-Hindustan’ in Kuwait, representing the largest expatriate group in the country. He expressed gratitude for Kuwait’s policies that support the Indian diaspora and spoke about India’s growth and development initiatives. In an informal meeting with Kuwaiti leaders, including Crown Prince and Prime Minister, discussions were oriented towards further strengthening ties in defense, trade, investment, and energy sectors.
Highlighting India’s role as a supporter of the Global South, PM Modi reiterated India’s commitment to being a reliable partner in development, crisis response, climate advocacy, and promoting inclusive growth. The groundwork laid during this informal gathering is expected to lead to significant discussions aimed at fostering stronger international relations between India and Kuwait, projecting a shared vision for future collaboration.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kuwait is pivotal, being the first by an Indian leader since Indira Gandhi’s tenure back in 1979. This visit is set against the backdrop of growing relationships between India and Gulf nations, characterized by a significant Indian diaspora in the region, substantial non-oil trade opportunities, and collaborative interests in various sectors. The meeting seeks to deepen Indonesia’s influence in the Gulf while promoting shared objectives with respect to economic development and cultural exchange.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Kuwait represents a seminal event in India’s diplomatic engagements in the Gulf region, underscoring the importance of the Indian diaspora while addressing trade diversification and labor welfare. His focus on strengthening bilateral ties and his acknowledgment of the contributions of Indians in Kuwait set a promising foundation for future cooperation across multiple sectors of mutual interest. The visit enhances India’s role as a key player in the Global South and exemplifies its proactive approach in international diplomacy.
Original Source: www.indiatoday.in
