On the second day of his historic visit to Kuwait, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was warmly welcomed with a ceremonial guard of honour at the Bayan Palace. Modi is the first Indian prime minister to visit Kuwait in 43 years, following an invitation from the Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.
The formal welcome ceremony saw PM Modi being greeted by the Kuwaiti leadership, with Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah present. Details of the event were shared by the Ministry of External Affairs, which emphasized the significance of the visit. “A special welcome on historic visit! PM Modi arrives at the Bayan Palace in Kuwait for a ceremonial Guard of Honour. Warmly received by HH Sheikh Ahmed Abdullah Al-Ahmed Al-Sabah, PM of Kuwait. Extensive talks with HH the Amir, Crown Prince, and PM of Kuwait lie ahead,” the ministry’s spokesperson wrote on X.
Earlier, PM Modi engaged with the Indian diaspora at a “Hala Modi” event and visited the Gulf Spic Labour Camp, where he spoke with Indian workers, praising their contributions to Kuwait’s development. He linked their aspirations to his vision for a “Viksit Bharat 2027,” acknowledging their hard work and dedication.
During his visit, Modi also gave an interview to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), where he underscored the importance of trade and commerce in strengthening India-Kuwait relations. He pointed out the growing two-way trade, particularly highlighting the energy partnership between the two nations. “Our energy partnership adds unique value to our bilateral trade,” Modi stated.
The prime minister expressed pride in the presence of ‘Made in India’ products in Kuwait, particularly in sectors like automobiles and machinery, and stressed the importance of diversifying trade beyond oil. Modi highlighted the long-standing historical ties between India and Kuwait, noting shared cultural connections and economic integration, including the Indian Rupee being legal tender in Kuwait until 1961.”
The relationship between India and Kuwait is rooted in friendship and warmth,” Modi remarked, expressing optimism about the future of bilateral ties. “We have traded with each other since time immemorial, and the discoveries in Failaka Island speak of our shared past.”
The prime minister emphasized that India’s growing economy presents immense opportunities for further collaboration, especially as India is set to become the world’s third-largest economy. Modi highlighted the nation’s strong economic growth, ease of doing business, and its appeal to international investors, including Kuwait’s growing interest in investing in India.
Modi also touched upon Kuwait Vision 2035, which aims to transform the country into an economic and connectivity hub, noting the synergies between the two nations’ visions. “Indian companies are engaged in executing major infrastructure projects in Kuwait, and we are seeing increasing investments from Kuwaiti companies in India,” he added.
In terms of cultural ties, Modi pointed to Indian movies and shared culinary traditions as strong examples of the cultural bond between the two countries. He also invited Kuwaitis to explore India’s tourism offerings, emphasizing the rich historical and cultural connection between the two nations.”
As we elevate our relationship with Kuwait to a strategic partnership, I believe the role of the Indian community will grow in importance. I am confident that the Kuwaiti authorities will continue to support this vibrant community,” Modi said.
PM Modi also praised the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) for hosting one of the largest Indian diasporas, which he believes is strengthening the ties between India and Kuwait. He reiterated that partnerships in energy, trade, and other sectors are not only pillars of economic relations but also drivers of sustainable growth between the two nations.
