Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a significant visit to Kuwait on December 21-22, 2024, marking the first such high-level engagement from India since Prime Minister Indira Gandhi traveled to the Gulf nation over four decades ago. This historic visit culminated not only in renewed diplomatic ties but also the signing of four pivotal agreements aimed at eleviating the relationship between India and Kuwait to a ‘strategic partnership’. The announcement was made by Arun Kumar Chaterjee, Secretary (CPV & OIA), during a press briefing held at the Bayan Palace.
Among the major agreements signed were:
1. Defense Cooperation Agreement: The pact includes provisions for military training exchanges, joint exercises, and collaboration on defense industry projects, ensuring both nations can jointly develop their defense capabilities.
2. Cultural Exchange Program (2025-2029): This program aims to promote cultural ties through art, literature, music, and theater. It seeks to preserve and enrich the shared heritage of the two nations.
3. Executive Program for Sports Cooperation (2025-2028): This agreement is aimed at bolstering sports collaboration, including leadership exchanges and advancements in areas such as sports management and medicine.
4. International Solar Alliance Membership: Kuwait’s joining this international initiative highlights its commitment to ramping up its solar energy capabilities and addressing challenges related to sustainable development.
Chaterjee noted the significant contributions of the Indian community to Kuwait’s economy, particularly highlighting the roles filled by over one million Indians across various sectors like health care, engineering, and IT. He emphasized the intention to convene separate working groups dedicated to exploring collaborative opportunities across these sectors more systematically.
These agreements were framed within the broader historical and cultural ties between India and Kuwait, which date back to before the oil boom. The two nations have maintained economic relations since the Indian Rupee was once legal tender here. Today, with bilateral trade recorded at USD 10.47 billion for 2023-24, India stands as Kuwait's sixth-largest crude oil supplier.
Not only did Modi's visit focus on enhancing trade and cultural links, but it also aimed at setting a direction for joint military cooperation. He received the prestigious ‘Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer’ during this visit, which is Kuwait's highest honor, celebrating his contribution to strengthening bilateral ties. "India and Kuwait share many commonalities -- whether it’s our cultures, our functioning democracies, or our longstanding relationship," said Chaterjee during the press briefing.
Chaterjee also stressed the importance of addressing perceptions within Kuwait about foreign labor. He mentioned, "The Middle East is increasingly looking eastward, and India is well-positioned to play this key role," indicating India's rising stature among Gulf nations, especially following successful engagements with the UAE.
Modi's visit aligns with Kuwait's Vision 2035, aimed at diversifying its economy beyond oil and increasing collaboration with key partners like India. The Kuwaiti leadership’s investment and commitment to sectors like renewable energy and infrastructure present immense opportunities for Indian businesses.
During the bilateral talks, both leaders concurred on the importance of concluding the India-GCC Free Trade Agreement and reaffirmed their commitment to reforming the United Nations to tackle global challenges effectively. This partnership not only signifies economic cooperation but also fosters strategic depth across multiple dimensions including trade, defense, and regional stability.
Chaterjee expressed optimism about the future of India-Kuwait ties, underscoring the pivotal role of the Indian diaspora, which continues to shape this relationship positively. Modi’s invitation extended to His Highness Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah to visit India reflects the momentum of growing diplomatic engagement and signifies potential for future cooperation.
Modi's genuine engagement with Kuwait has laid the groundwork for transforming bilateral ties, making them more significant than prior relationships borne out of sheer economic necessity. By focusing on cultural exchanges and defense technology collaborations, this strategic partnership holds the promise of fostering long-term growth and cooperation.
