Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the pivotal role of trade and commerce in strengthening the long-standing ties between India and Kuwait during his historic visit to the Gulf nation, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over four decades. Highlighting the growth in bilateral trade, Modi noted the unique value of the energy partnership between the two countries and the increasing prominence of non-oil trade sectors.
Expanding Economic and Trade Cooperation
Modi underscored the rising presence of “Made in India” products in Kuwait, particularly in industries such as automobiles, machinery, and telecommunications. He called for diversification into non-oil trade and identified pharmaceuticals, technology, and textiles as areas ripe for collaboration. Stressing India’s capacity for affordable, world-class manufacturing, he urged entrepreneurs and business chambers from both countries to strengthen their interactions.
Shared History and Growing Partnership
The Prime Minister celebrated the historical bonds between India and Kuwait, rooted in centuries of commerce and cultural exchange. He referenced the Indian Rupee’s use as legal tender in Kuwait until 1961 and archaeological discoveries in Failaka Island as evidence of this shared past. These strong historical ties, he said, should be complemented by a robust, multifaceted 21st-century partnership encompassing defense, trade, investment, and energy.
Kuwait’s Indian Community: A Living Bridge
Acknowledging the contributions of the over one million Indians in Kuwait, Modi described them as a “living bridge” fostering friendship and mutual appreciation. Indians play a significant role in Kuwait’s development, working as professionals, entrepreneurs, and skilled workers across various sectors. The Prime Minister also expressed gratitude to the Kuwaiti government for supporting and recognizing the community’s contributions.
Opportunities for Mutual Growth
Modi highlighted India’s rapid economic growth, its transition to the world’s fifth-largest economy, and its trajectory to become the third-largest. He pointed to India’s vibrant start-up ecosystem, technological advancements, and infrastructure boom as significant opportunities for Kuwaiti investors. Similarly, he lauded Kuwait Vision 2035 for its ambitious infrastructure projects and noted the synergy between the two countries’ development goals.
Cultural Bonds and Soft Power
The Prime Minister also reflected on the cultural connections between India and Kuwait, noting the popularity of Indian cinema and cuisine in Kuwait. He highlighted initiatives like the Arabic translation of Indian epics and the Hindi-language radio program “Namaste Kuwait” as symbols of the enduring cultural ties. Modi invited Kuwaitis to explore India’s rich tourism offerings, including 43 UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Strengthening Energy Relations
Energy continues to be a cornerstone of India-Kuwait ties, with bilateral trade in the sector surpassing USD 10 billion last year. Kuwait ranks among India’s top crude oil and LPG suppliers, while India exports petroleum products to Kuwait, reinforcing the mutual benefits of this partnership.
Vision for the Future
Modi concluded with optimism, expressing confidence in elevating India-Kuwait relations to a strategic partnership. He reiterated his government’s commitment to making India a developed nation by 2047 and aligning with Kuwait’s vision of economic transformation. This alignment, he asserted, promises limitless opportunities for collaboration and mutual growth.
