NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with Kuwait's highest honour, the Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer, during his visit to the Gulf nation. This accolade, presented by Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, marks the 20th international honour bestowed upon the Indian leader and is significant for its role in acknowledging contributions to diplomatic relations.
The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer is awarded to heads of state, foreign sovereigns, and members of royal families as recognition for strengthening bilateral ties. Among the notable recipients of this honour are former US Presidents Bill Clinton and George H.W. Bush, together with the UK’s Prince Charles. It was formally instated in 1974 and has since been conferred upon select global leaders.
PM Modi's recent visit to Kuwait, which took place over two days, was the first by any Indian Prime Minister to the country since Indira Gandhi's trip 43 years ago. During this visit, Modi held extensive discussions with prominent Kuwaiti leaders, setting the stage for enhanced cooperation between the two countries.
Financing the overall welfare of the Indian community was on the agenda, as Kuwait’s Indian population is the largest expatriate community there, exceeding one million. Such demographic signals the pivotal role India plays within Kuwait’s economy, with substantial trade ties amounting to USD 10.47 billion for the fiscal year 2023-24. Kuwait also serves as India’s sixth-largest crude oil supplier.
“I am honoured to be conferred the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Order by His Highness the Amir 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,” stated PM Modi on social media, highlighting the meaningfulness of the award during this historic visit.
Following the award ceremony, Modi also addressed the significance of his talks with Kuwaiti leadership, where discussions revolved around pivotal areas including information technology, pharmaceuticals, fintech, infrastructure, and security. Modi expressed optimism about the elevated strategic partnership resulting from their negotiations.
The Indian Prime Minister’s statements post-meeting reflect the hope both nations share for mutual growth. “We have elevated our partnership to strategic levels, and I am optimistic our friendship will flourish even more going forward,” Modi remarked.
The dedication of the Kuwaiti award also highlights the historical relationship between India and Kuwait, especially as it marks the reconvening of direct leadership dialogue after years of inactivity.
Wrapping up his visit, PM Modi left Kuwait ensuring future collaborations and continued efforts to strengthen ties moving forward. The Indian government’s assertion of the new phase of bilateral relations emphasizes the importance of both nations committing to mutual economic and cultural support.
India's long-standing relations with Kuwait, characterized by friendship and significant economic links, pave the way for future collaborations as both nations look to build upon this solid foundation. This recent honour and strategic discussions signify more than just diplomatic gestures; they embody the aspirations and potential of both nations thriving together.
