Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a landmark two-day visit to Kuwait from December 21 to 22, 2024. The visit, announced by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), is being celebrated by the Indian expatriate community in Kuwait as a significant step towards deepening the ties between the two nations.
A Historic Visit
The visit marks the first time an Indian Prime Minister has traveled to Kuwait since Indira Gandhi’s visit in 1981. Invited by Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, PM Modi’s trip underscores the importance of Indo-Kuwait relations, which have been historically strong. For the Indian community in Kuwait, this visit is a moment of pride and anticipation for enhanced collaboration and recognition of their contributions.
Strengthening People-to-People Ties
A highlight of the visit will be PM Modi’s engagement with Indian expatriates, including a visit to a labour camp housing Indian workers. With over a million Indians forming the largest expatriate community in Kuwait, this gesture reaffirms the Indian government’s commitment to its citizens abroad. For NRIs, it is a welcome acknowledgment of their role in fostering economic and cultural bonds between the two countries.
Economic and Trade Collaboration
India and Kuwait share a dynamic economic partnership. Bilateral trade reached $10.47 billion in the financial year 2023-24, with Kuwait emerging as India’s sixth-largest crude oil supplier, fulfilling 3% of its energy needs. Indian exports to Kuwait surpassed $2 billion for the first time, while Kuwaiti investments in India, primarily through the Kuwait Investment Authority, have exceeded $10 billion.
As NRIs, we take pride in facilitating and benefiting from this economic collaboration. The community’s entrepreneurial spirit and professional contributions play a vital role in strengthening these ties.The historical ties between India and Kuwait are a source of immense pride for the Indian community. Maritime trade during pre-oil Kuwait established deep-rooted connections, with Kuwaiti wooden dhows carrying dates, Arabian horses, and pearls to India in exchange for wood, cereals, clothes, and spices. The Indian Rupee remaining legal tender in Kuwait until 1961 further symbolizes this enduring bond.
Recent Diplomatic Engagements
Diplomatic relations between the two nations were formally established in 1961, with India initially represented by a trade commissioner. High-level exchanges have been a hallmark of the relationship, including a private visit by Emir Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmed Al Jabar Al Sabah to India in 2017 and the Kuwaiti Prime Minister’s visit to India in 2013.
As NRIs, these exchanges are viewed as milestones that enhance bilateral trust and cooperation, paving the way for mutual growth and development.
During his visit, PM Modi is expected to focus on bolstering cooperation in defence and security, enhancing trade ties, and fostering people-to-people connections. For the Indian community in Kuwait, these areas hold immense potential for new opportunities and greater engagement in the development of both nations.
A New Chapter in Bilateral Ties
PM Modi’s visit to Kuwait is poised to open a new chapter in Indo-Kuwait relations. For Indian NRIs, this visit represents not just a diplomatic milestone but also a reaffirmation of the vital role they play in this enduring partnership. As contributors to Kuwait’s economy and as proud ambassadors of Indian culture, the expatriate community stands ready to support and celebrate the growing ties between the two nations.
This visit underscores the shared history and aspirations of India and Kuwait, laying the groundwork for a future of shared prosperity and strengthened relations.
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Mohammad Khalid Azmi
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