Prime Minister Narendra Modi has just arrived in Kuwait for a two-day visit. This is a big deal because it’s the first time in 43 years that an Indian Prime Minister has visited this Gulf country. Modi received an invitation from Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Emir of Kuwait.
During his trip, Modi plans to talk with the leaders of Kuwait to build a better partnership for the future. He also emphasizes the strong friendship between India and Kuwait that has lasted for many years. The two countries have a lot in common, including interests in peace and stability in the West Asia region.
Modi looks forward to meeting the Emir, the Crown Prince, and the Prime Minister of Kuwait. Plus, he will attend the start of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup event.
Indira Gandhi was the last Indian Prime Minister to visit Kuwait back in 1981. Today, India is one of Kuwait’s top trading partners, with a trade amounting to around USD 10.47 billion in the financial year 2023-24.
The Indian community in Kuwait is very vibrant and large, making up 21% of Kuwait’s total population, which is about 1 million people. Indians also form 30% of the workforce in Kuwait, both in the private and domestic sectors. Indian exports to Kuwait recently reached USD 2 billion for the first time!
Kuwait is also important for India’s energy needs since it is the sixth-largest supplier of oil to India, meeting 3% of its energy supply. India and Kuwait’s friendship goes back to a time when trade by sea was crucial for Kuwait’s economy.
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