Prime Minister Narendra Modi's historic two-day visit to Kuwait was marked by a series of significant events that underscored the deepening ties between the two nations. The trip culminated in a moving display of diplomatic camaraderie as Kuwait’s Prime Minister, His Highness Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, personally escorted PM Modi to the airport. This rare gesture highlighted the warmth and respect between the leaders and symbolized the strengthening of the relationship between India and Kuwait. At the airport, the two leaders shared a heartfelt embrace, a poignant moment that encapsulated the success of the visit and the promise of continued cooperation.
The visit was further distinguished by the conferment of Kuwait's highest civilian honor, the Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer, to Prime Minister Modi. This prestigious knighthood, which is usually awarded to heads of state, foreign sovereigns, and royal family members, recognized Modi's tireless efforts in enhancing the diplomatic and strategic ties between India and Kuwait. The Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer is a rare and highly respected honor, with previous recipients including former U.S. Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, and the British monarch, King Charles III. By receiving this honor, PM Modi became part of an exclusive group of world leaders celebrated for their exceptional contributions to global diplomacy. In his acceptance, PM Modi expressed his deep gratitude and dedicated the award to the people of India and the strong, enduring bond between the two nations.
"I am honoured to be conferred the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Order by His Highness the Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. I dedicate this honour to the people of India and to the strong friendship between India and Kuwait," PM Modi posted on X, emphasizing the significance of the award not just as a personal recognition, but as a reflection of the close and productive relationship between the two countries.
During his time in Kuwait, PM Modi was given a ceremonial guard of honor at the esteemed Bayan Palace in Kuwait City, a powerful symbol of the respect and reverence shown to the Indian Prime Minister. This was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in 43 years, making it a landmark event in the history of India-Kuwait relations. During the visit, PM Modi held extensive discussions with the Kuwaiti leadership, including the Emir of Kuwait, His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and the Prime Minister, His Highness Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. These talks focused on several key areas of collaboration, including information technology, pharmaceuticals, fintech, infrastructure development, and security cooperation. Both sides expressed a shared commitment to strengthening their bilateral ties in these areas, with an emphasis on fostering innovation, promoting sustainable development, and enhancing regional stability.
In addition to official talks, PM Modi engaged with the Indian diaspora in Kuwait, which is the largest expatriate community in the country, comprising over one million members. On Saturday, he addressed a vibrant gathering at the 'Hala Modi' event, where he praised the contributions of the Indian community to Kuwait’s economic and social development. He also reiterated India’s commitment to supporting the welfare of Indian nationals abroad, stressing the importance of their role in both Kuwait’s growth and India’s global engagement. The event was a testament to the strong bond between the two nations and the crucial role played by the Indian diaspora in enhancing bilateral ties.
PM Modi also visited an Indian labor camp during his trip, taking the time to personally interact with workers and recognize their valuable contributions to Kuwait’s development. This gesture underscored the Indian government’s commitment to the well-being of its citizens abroad, particularly those working in challenging conditions. By visiting the labor camp, PM Modi demonstrated his dedication to addressing the concerns of Indian workers and ensuring that their rights and welfare are protected.
Throughout the visit, PM Modi was accompanied by a high-level delegation, including key ministers and officials, all working to strengthen the multi-faceted partnership between India and Kuwait. The visit also served as an opportunity to sign several key agreements aimed at enhancing cooperation in various fields, including trade, technology, and energy. The discussions were also centered around strengthening security cooperation and combating common challenges such as terrorism and organized crime.
The success of PM Modi's visit to Kuwait has set the stage for a new chapter in India-Kuwait relations, one that is poised to bring about significant advancements in economic, cultural, and strategic ties. By focusing on innovation, sustainable growth, and mutual security, both nations have laid a solid foundation for a more dynamic and prosperous partnership. The visit has not only enhanced the diplomatic ties between the two countries but has also reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with the Gulf nations. Moving forward, the positive outcomes of this visit are expected to resonate for years to come, further deepening the friendship between India and Kuwait.
