During his two-day visit to Kuwait, Prime Minister Narendra Modi aims to enhance India-Kuwait relations, focusing on trade, security, and regional cooperation. This marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in over four decades.
In his message before departure, Modi expressed enthusiasm about meeting Kuwait’s Amir, Crown Prince, and Prime Minister, emphasizing the importance of developing a roadmap for a mutually beneficial partnership between the two nations and the wider region.
Kuwait, a key partner in energy and trade for India, is home to a large Indian diaspora, with one million Indian nationals residing there. Modi plans to visit a labor camp for Indian workers and address the community during his trip. He will also attend the inauguration of the Arabian Gulf Cup, a prominent regional sporting event.
Strengthening defense and security cooperation is a primary goal of the visit, alongside discussions on a potential bilateral investment treaty and defense agreements. India and Kuwait’s two-way trade reached $10.47 billion in 2023-24, with Indian exports growing by 34.7% year-on-year. Kuwait is also a major supplier of crude oil to India.
The visit is expected to bolster ties between India and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which is chaired by Kuwait, fostering regional unity and economic growth.