Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Kuwait today for a two-day official visit, marking the first trip by an Indian Prime Minister to the Gulf nation in over four decades. His visit aims to deepen bilateral relations, with a focus on trade, defence, and energy cooperation.

PM Modi received a warm welcome from Kuwait’s leadership and members of the Indian community upon his arrival. His itinerary includes meetings with Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Crown Prince Sheikh Mishal, and other senior officials. Agreements across multiple sectors are expected to be signed during the visit.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

Highlighting the historical ties between the two nations, PM Modi said, “India and Kuwait share a long-standing friendship based on mutual respect and shared interests in peace, security, and prosperity in West Asia.” He added that the visit would help create a roadmap for a stronger partnership between the two countries.

Arun Kumar Chatterjee, Secretary for Overseas Indian Affairs, described the visit as a “historic moment” that would “open a new chapter” in India-Kuwait relations. He emphasized that it would not only consolidate existing partnerships but also pave the way for new areas of collaboration.

Key Engagements

PM Modi’s schedule includes a meeting with Indian expatriates during the “Hala Modi” event and attending the inauguration ceremony of the Arabian Gulf Cup football tournament. He is also expected to visit a labour camp to show solidarity with Indian workers in Kuwait.

Kuwait, which chairs the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), is a significant trading partner for India, with bilateral trade exceeding USD 10 billion in 2023-24. Talks are underway between India and the GCC to finalize a free trade agreement.

Indian Community and Worker Welfare

The Prime Minister underscored the vital role of the Indian diaspora in strengthening India-Kuwait relations. With approximately 1 million Indians living in Kuwait, they form the largest expatriate community in the country.

During the visit, PM Modi plans to meet Indian workers at a labour camp, highlighting the government’s commitment to their welfare. This gesture follows a tragic fire in June 2023 that claimed the lives of over 45 Indian workers in Mangaf, southern Kuwait.

Chatterjee noted that the government has taken measures to improve the living conditions of Indian workers abroad, ensuring their safety and well-being.

A Historic Visit

PM Modi’s trip is the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait since Indira Gandhi’s visit in 1981. With discussions ranging from energy and trade to culture and labour welfare, the visit is poised to further strengthen the ties between the two nations and enhance India’s role in the Gulf region.