Significance of Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Kuwait

Source: The post significance of Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Kuwait has been created, based on the article “A chance to strike gold during the Kuwait visit” published in “The Hindu” on 21st December 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2-International relations-Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

Context: The article discusses Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kuwait, highlighting its significance for strengthening bilateral ties. It covers Kuwait’s strategic importance, its wealth, and strong ties with India, emphasizing areas where both countries can further cooperate and elevate their relationship.

For detailed information on Why the Gulf matters for India read this article here

What is the significance of Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Kuwait?

1. It is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in 43 years.
2. The last visit was by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1981.
3. The visit aims to strengthen ties and fill the gap in India’s West Asia engagement.

Why is Kuwait important strategically?

Geographic Location: Kuwait is located at the northeast end of the Persian Gulf, sharing borders with Iraq and Saudi Arabia, making it strategically significant in West Asia.

American Military Bases: It hosts important American military bases, ensuring its relevance in regional security.

Oil Reserves: Kuwait holds the sixth-largest oil reserves globally, contributing significantly to global energy markets.

Neutral Mediator: Kuwait often plays a neutral role in regional disputes and acts as an interlocutor.

Wealth and Investments: Its sovereign wealth fund, valued at $924 billion (March 2024), is the fourth-largest globally.

Unique Democracy: It is the only Gulf monarchy experimenting successfully with democracy.

What is the state of India-Kuwait ties?

1. India and Kuwait share historical and cultural bonds, with diplomatic relations established in 1961.
2. Bilateral trade was $10.47 billion in FY 2023-24, with Kuwait as the sixth-largest crude supplier to India.
3. Around 1 million Indians live in Kuwait, forming the largest expatriate group.
4. During COVID-19, India provided vaccines to Kuwait, while Kuwait sent oxygen and medical supplies to India.
5. Kuwait quickly repatriated the mortal remains of 40 Indians who died in a fire in June 2024.

What are the potential areas for strengthening ties?

1. Signing a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement and defense cooperation pact.
2. Collaborating on infrastructure projects under Kuwait’s ‘Vision 2035.’
3. Setting up Indian Institutes (IIT/IIM) and hospitals in Kuwait to enhance people-to-people connections.
4. Inviting Kuwait to join the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.
5. Enhancing cooperation in space technology and increasing airline seat allocations.

Question for practice:

Discuss the significance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kuwait and the potential areas for strengthening India-Kuwait ties.