Udaipur, December 21, 2024 – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a two-day visit to Kuwait from today. What is of significance is that this is the first visit by an Indian premiere to the Gulf country in 43 years. The last time an Indian PM visited Kuwait was in 1981 when the late former PM Indira Gandhi had gone there. Also, Hamid Ansari, the then Vice-President, had visited the nation in 2009.

Modi is visiting this Gulf country at the invitation of the Kuwaiti Emir, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, said 

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has described this trip as “historic” and a step towards opening a new chapter in bilateral ties between the two countries. Talks are expected to center around trade, culture and energy. Also on the list are discussions on a bilateral investment treaty and a defence co-operation pact.

Apart from holding diplomatic talks, Modi will meet the India diaspora this evening at Hala Modi, a cultural event to be held at Sheikh Saad Al Abdullah Sports Complex in the city. Around 5,000 people are expected to attend the programme. Indians are currently the largest expatriate community in Kuwait. He will also visit an Indian labour camp and attend the opening ceremony of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup Football Tournament.

“(The visit) will not only consolidate the partnership in existing spheres but also unveil new avenues for future cooperation, reinforce our shared values and build a more stronger and dynamic partnership for the future,” said Arun Kumar Chatterjee, Secretary (Overseas Indian Affairs) in MEA, to the media.