Narendra Modi

التالى السابق

Since 1981 the second high level visit from India to Kuwait

REPORTS - منذ 20 ساعة

The Indian Prime Minister Narendra in Kuwait

South Eye | Report - Exclusive

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Kuwait on December 21-22, 2024, marks a significant milestone as the first by an Indian premier in 43 years. This visit underscores India's strategic intent to deepen ties with Gulf nations, aligning with its broader foreign policy objectives that extend beyond traditional alliances like BRICS.

India and Kuwait have shared a longstanding relationship characterized by economic collaboration and robust people-to-people connections. Kuwait stands as one of India's top trading partners, with bilateral trade reaching USD 10.47 billion in the fiscal year 2023-24. Notably, Kuwait is India's sixth-largest crude oil supplier, fulfilling 3% of the country's energy requirements. The Indian expatriate community is the largest in Kuwait, further cementing the socio-economic bonds between the two nations. The last high-level visit from India to Kuwait was by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1981. Since then, the geopolitical landscape has evolved significantly, making Modi's visit timely for reinvigorating bilateral relations and exploring new avenues of cooperation.

India's foreign policy has traditionally emphasized partnerships within multilateral frameworks like BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa). However, recent global developments have prompted India to diversify its diplomatic engagements, particularly focusing on the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

The expansion of BRICS to include nations such as Egypt, Ethiopia, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia reflects a shift towards a more inclusive Global South coalition. This expansion aligns with India's strategy to strengthen ties with Gulf nations, recognizing their pivotal role in global energy markets and economic corridors.

Prime Minister Modi's visit to Kuwait is emblematic of this strategic pivot. By engaging directly with Gulf leaders, India aims to bolster economic partnerships, enhance energy security, and collaborate on regional security issues. The visit also provides an opportunity to discuss investments, technology transfers, and cultural exchanges, thereby broadening the scope of bilateral relations.

But, what bring our attention is Narendra Modi’s recent statement during his visit to Kuwait, referring to the Gulf nation as a “mini-India,” that seems will carry significant meaning beyond a mere acknowledgment of the Indian diaspora's presence. This visit marks a pivotal moment in India’s relationship with Kuwait, one that builds upon decades of collaboration and mutual reliance. Modi’s words underscore the vital role played by the Indian community in shaping not only Kuwait’s economy but also its multicultural society.

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India’s relationship with Kuwait has long been defined by the contributions of its expatriate workforce, which is the largest in the country, numbering over a million. These individuals are embedded in nearly every aspect of Kuwait’s development, from healthcare and construction to education and services. Their influence has made Indian culture—its festivals, food, and even Bollywood entertainment—an integral part of Kuwait’s social fabric. By describing Kuwait as a “mini-India,” Modi emphasized this deep cultural integration, positioning the Indian diaspora as a living bridge that connects the two nations.

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The statement also carries strategic undertones, reflecting India’s broader foreign policy objectives. By celebrating diversity and the community’s contributions, Modi is projecting India’s soft power in a region of growing importance. This approach aligns with India’s ambition to strengthen ties with Gulf nations, not only as economic partners but also as strategic allies in a volatile geopolitical landscape. Kuwait, as a major supplier of crude oil to India and an essential hub for Indian expatriates, plays a crucial role in this strategy.

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Furthermore, Modi’s focus on the diaspora highlights the Indian government’s commitment to its citizens abroad. His visit reinforces the idea that the welfare and contributions of Indian expatriates are central to India’s foreign policy. Beyond symbolic gestures, this could pave the way for tangible initiatives, such as improved labor agreements and enhanced social security measures for the Indian workforce in Kuwait.

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The narrative also hints at a future of deeper collaboration. India and Kuwait are poised to explore new opportunities in technology, renewable energy, and cultural diplomacy. The mutual respect and recognition symbolized in Modi’s words could translate into strengthened bilateral relations, where both nations benefit from shared values and goals.

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In calling Kuwait a “mini-India,” Modi was not just speaking about the diversity of the Indian community. He was signaling India’s broader aspirations—to be a global player whose influence is felt not only through economic might but also through its people. This visit, coming after 43 years, is a reaffirmation of that vision, highlighting the interconnected destinies of India and the Gulf region. The statement, simple yet profound, encapsulates a legacy of partnership and a future of boundless possibilities.