Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a two-day official visit to Kuwait, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Gulf nation in 43 years. This historic trip aims to strengthen ties in key areas such as trade, defence, energy, and cultural exchange while reinforcing India's engagement with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

During his visit, PM Modi will hold discussions with Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Crown Prince, and the Kuwaiti Prime Minister. The visit also includes a special address to the Indian community, a visit to an Indian labour camp, and attendance at the opening ceremony of the Gulf Cup football tournament.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has highlighted that several agreements, including a bilateral investment treaty and a defence cooperation pact, are under negotiation and may be finalized during this visit. Discussions are also ongoing for a free trade agreement between India and the GCC, which comprises Kuwait, the UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar.

“This historic visit will consolidate existing partnerships and open new avenues for cooperation while strengthening shared values and building a dynamic future-oriented relationship between India and Kuwait,” said Arun Kumar Chatterjee, Secretary (Overseas Indian Affairs), MEA.

Kuwait, currently the chair of the GCC, is a vital economic partner for India. In the 2023-24 financial year, bilateral trade between the two nations exceeded USD 10 billion, with Kuwait ranking as India’s sixth-largest crude oil supplier. Indian exports to Kuwait crossed USD 2 billion, while the Kuwait Investment Authority’s investments in India surpassed USD 10 billion.

India and Kuwait share longstanding historical ties, dating back to the days when maritime trade was a cornerstone of Kuwait’s economy. The Indian Rupee remained legal tender in Kuwait until 1961, symbolizing the enduring connection between the two nations.

PM Modi’s visit underscores India’s commitment to the welfare of its expatriate workers, with a visit to a labour camp in Kuwait as a key agenda. Over 1 million Indians live in Kuwait, forming the largest expatriate community in the country.

This visit is expected to usher in a new chapter in India-Kuwait relations, fostering collaboration in trade, investment, energy, and cultural ties while reinforcing India’s partnership with the GCC. The last Indian Prime Minister to visit Kuwait was Indira Gandhi in 1981.