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PM Modi Concludes Historic Visit to Kuwait, Receives Top Honor, Special Gesture from Kuwaiti Premiere

PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a landmark two-day visit to Kuwait on December 22, 2024, marking a significant milestone in India-Kuwait relations by elevating bilateral ties to a strategic partnership. This was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in 43 years, symbolizing a new era of cooperation and growth between the two nations.


During the visit, PM Modi held extensive discussions with Kuwait’s leadership, including Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Prime Minister Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, and Crown Prince Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah.

Key areas of focus included collaboration in information technology, pharmaceuticals, fintech, infrastructure, and energy security.

Recognition and Honours

In a significant gesture, PM Modi was awarded Kuwait’s highest honor, “The Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer,” in recognition of his role in strengthening bilateral ties. Accepting the award, PM Modi expressed his gratitude, dedicating it to the people of India and the enduring friendship between the two nations. This prestigious knighthood has previously been awarded to global leaders such as Bill Clinton and Prince Charles.

The Prime Minister also addressed the Indian diaspora in Kuwait, which is the largest expatriate community in the Gulf nation, exceeding one million. He praised their contributions in fields such as healthcare, engineering, business, and construction, acknowledging their vital role in Kuwait's development.

Strengthening Economic Ties

Kuwait is a critical trade partner for India, with bilateral trade surpassing $10.47 billion in the financial year 2023-24. The Gulf nation is India’s sixth-largest crude oil supplier, meeting 3% of its energy needs, and its fourth-largest LPG supplier. Additionally, Indian exports to Kuwait reached $2 billion, while investments by the Kuwait Investment Authority in India exceeded $10 billion.

Promoting India’s Soft Power

PM Modi highlighted India’s historical and cultural ties with the Gulf region, emphasizing the influence of Indian cinema, cuisine, and tourism as elements of soft power. He noted the shared cultural heritage between the two nations, citing examples such as a Kuwaiti scholar’s translation of the Indian epics Ramayana and Mahabharata into Arabic.

PM Modi also underscored India’s expanding global presence in tackling challenges like climate change, food security, and advocating for the Global South. Speaking on the tourism sector, he invited Kuwaitis to explore India’s rich history and diversity, citing its 43 UNESCO World Heritage sites as major attractions.

A Farewell with Warmth

In a rare and special gesture, Kuwait’s Prime Minister personally saw off PM Modi at the airport, underlining the strong rapport between the leaders. The Ministry of External Affairs described the visit as "historic and successful," setting the stage for deeper bilateral collaboration in the years ahead.

With this visit, PM Modi has reinforced India’s position as a key player in the Gulf region while fostering closer ties with a long-standing ally. His successful engagement in Kuwait is expected to further strengthen the strategic partnership and cultural bonds between the two nations.

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