India-Kuwait enter a “strategic partnership” during PM Modi’s visit

Modi's historic visit strengthens trade, defence, and bilateral cooperation

December 20, 2024

PM Modi received Kuwait's highest honour, ‘The Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer,’ for strengthening bilateral ties

Defence cooperation was institutionalised through an agreement encompassing training, joint exercises, equipment supply, and R&D collaboration

Additional MoUs were signed for sports, culture, and solar energy collaboration

Bilateral trade reached US$10.47 billion in 2023-24, with discussions highlighting opportunities in energy, defence, and infrastructure

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit to Kuwait marked a pivotal moment in India-Kuwait relations, with the two countries elevating their partnership to a “strategic” level. This development was formalised during Modi’s meetings with Kuwait’s Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah.

Modi’s visit, the first by an Indian Prime Minister since Indira Gandhi’s in 1981, was symbolised by Kuwait conferring its highest honour, ‘The Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer,’ on Modi for his role in strengthening bilateral ties. Expressing gratitude, Modi dedicated the award to the people of India and the enduring friendship between the two nations.

During the visit, the two sides institutionalised defence cooperation through a wide-ranging agreement, including joint training, personnel exchange, and R&D collaboration. Beyond defence, three MoUs were signed to bolster cooperation in sports, cultural exchange, and renewable energy.

Economic engagement remained central, with trade, investment, and future opportunities discussions. Modi invited the Kuwaiti Investment Authority to explore sectors like energy, medical devices, food parks, and fintech in India. Kuwait, India’s top Gulf trading partner, reported bilateral trade valued at US$10.47 billion in 2023-24. Modi acknowledged the well-being of over one million Indians in Kuwait and their contributions to its development.

Both sides stressed collaboration in multilateral forums, including the UN, and expressed a shared interest in peace and stability in West Asia. Discussions also extended to intensifying India-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) ties under Kuwait’s presidency.

The visit culminated in a joint statement reaffirming a united stance against terrorism. Both nations condemned terrorism in all forms, emphasising the dismantling of financing networks and infrastructure. Kuwait’s leadership expressed optimism about India’s role in realising its ‘Vision 2035’ while recognising India as a valued Gulf partner.

Modi described the strengthened partnership as a step forward for mutual prosperity and a commitment to addressing global challenges together.

Source: Indian Express

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