‘Trade, Commerce Important Pillars Of India-Kuwait Bilateral Ties’: PM Modi

Last Updated:December 22, 2024, 00:00 IST

PM Narendra Modi arrived in Kuwait on Saturday, marking the first visit by an Indian PM in 43 years, and received a resounding welcome from the Indian community in the Gulf country.

PM Modi became the first Indian PM to visit Kuwait in 43 years. (MEA)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a historic two-day visit to Kuwait, said trade and commerce have been essential pillars of the bilateral relationship between the two countries as it is constantly expanding.

Modi arrived in Kuwait for a historic two-day visit in Kuwait to a resounding welcome from the Indian diaspora, as his visit marked the first trip to the Gulf nation by an Indian prime minister in the last 43 years. The trip comes at the invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of Kuwait.

In an interview with Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), the Prime Minister said, “Trade and commerce have been important pillars of our bilateral relationship. Our bilateral trade has been on an upswing. Our energy partnership adds a unique value to our bilateral trade.”

He also expressed satisfaction with ‘Make In India’ products in automobile, electrical and mechanical machinery as well as telecom segments making new inroads in Kuwait. “Today, India is manufacturing world-class products at the most affordable cost. Diversification to non-oil trade is key to achieving greater bilateral trade,” he added.

He also said the Indian community acts as a “living bridge” between the two countries, fostering a deep appreciation for Indian philosophy, music and performing art. He asserted that Indians in Kuwait, who are the largest expatriate group, have contributed immensely to the development of Kuwait as doctors, businessmen, construction workers, engineers, nurses and other professionals.

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India, Kuwait Share Deep Historic Bond: PM Modi

As PM Modi arrived in Kuwait on Saturday, where he would stay for the next two days, members of the Indian diaspora eagerly gathered to interact with him. The Prime Minister interacted with members of the Indian diaspora and enjoyed a cultural performance by Indian artists at the hotel, showcasing folk acts from Kerala and other states of India.

He also addressed an Indian community event titled ‘Hala Modi’ in Kuwait. During his address, PM Modi said he was happy to see the diversity of people from India in the Middle East nation and called it a “mini-India”. He was also the guest of honour in the opening ceremony of the Arabian Gulf Cup.

The Prime Minister said there was considerable potential to expand bilateral cooperation in pharmaceutical, health, technology, digital innovation and textile sectors and proposed that business chambers, entrepreneurs and innovators engage with each other to further cooperation between the two countries.

Modi further said India and Kuwait shared a deep and historic bond and the relationship between both countries has always been one of warmth and friendship. “I am delighted to visit Kuwait. I thank His Highness the Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah for his gracious invitation,” he told KUNA.

He further said that India had been a natural trading partner of Kuwait, particularly given that Indians are the largest expatriate community in the Gulf country, and that people-to-people linkages over centuries have fostered a special bond of friendship between the two countries.

“Overall, the bilateral ties are progressing well and if I could say, scaling new heights. I eagerly look forward to my talks with His Highness the Amir to elevate our ties in various areas including defence, trade, investment, and energy,” he further said.

PM Modi On India Becoming A Global Investment Hub

The Indian PM further highlighted that India is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, poised to become the third-largest economy worldwide. He said that this growth creates numerous opportunities for investment across a variety of sectors.

“Over the last decade, we have doubled our airports from 70 in 2014 to over 150 in 2024. In the next five years, 31 Indian cities will” be serviced by metro transport systems. The number of education and skill development institutions has also doubled since 2014, reflecting a strong focus on human capital development. This is supported by a favorable demography and a highly skilled workforce,” he added.

“Our political stability, policy predictability and reform-oriented business approach has made India a magnet for global investment,” manufacturing and supply chain. The Indian growth story is attracting global manufacturers – from semiconductors, aircraft, drones to e-vehicles – to set up shop in the country,” he also said.

He asserted that India is one of the most attractive destinations for international investment and is not a new market for Kuwaiti businesses. He also drew parallels between Kuwait Vision 2035 and his government’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, saying that there is a lot of synergy between the two countries’ motives as the pace of economic activity is opening up large opportunities for companies and governments to cooperate and collaborate.

The PM also touched upon India’s global role, saying, “India is privileged to speak for the Global South. We share much in common with our fellow developing countries – from history to the aspirations of our people. We therefore not only understand, but feel their concerns.” He also hailed India as a reliable development partner for the Global South, while reiterating his message of dialogue and diplomacy for global conflicts such as those in Gaza and Ukraine.

Location :

Kuwait City, Kuwait