PM Modi arrives in Kuwait on 2-day visit

In a statement before his departure, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the importance of the visit. “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 interests in peace, security, stability, and prosperity in the West Asia region,” he said. He expressed enthusiasm about meeting the Emir, the Crown Prince, and the Kuwaiti Prime Minister to outline a roadmap for a futuristic partnership.

Modi’s itinerary also includes attending the opening ceremony of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup in Kuwait. The last Indian Prime Minister to visit the Gulf nation was Indira Gandhi in 1981.

India and Kuwait share robust economic ties. Kuwait ranks as one of India’s top trading partners, with bilateral trade valued at USD 10.47 billion in the financial year 2023-24. The Gulf nation is also India’s sixth-largest crude oil supplier, meeting 3 percent of its energy needs. Indian exports to Kuwait have reached a record USD 2 billion, while investments by the Kuwait Investment Authority in India exceed USD 10 billion.

The Indian community, which forms the largest expatriate group in Kuwait, plays a vital role in strengthening bilateral relations. With over one million Indians making up 21 percent of Kuwait’s population and 30 percent of its workforce, their contribution spans various sectors, including the private and domestic workforce.

The historical ties between India and Kuwait date back to the pre-oil era when maritime trade formed the backbone of Kuwait’s economy. This visit seeks to further deepen the longstanding friendly relations between the two nations.

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