23rd December 2024 (11 Topics)
India And Kuwait Are 'Strategic Partners' Now,
Context
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Kuwait (first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in 43 years), India and Kuwait elevated their relationship to a "strategic partnership," focusing on key areas like trade, defence, and regional security.
Key Takeaways of the visit
- Strategic Partnership: India and Kuwait upgraded their bilateral ties to a strategic partnership, signaling enhanced cooperation in areas like trade, defence, security, infrastructure, and technology.
- Defence Cooperation: A key agreement was signed to institutionalize defence ties, including joint exercises, personnel exchanges, supply of defence equipment, and collaboration in research and development.
- MoUs Signed: Four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed:
- Kuwait’s membership of International Solar Alliance (ISA)
- Cooperation in the field of
- Cultural Exchange Programme between India and Kuwait for the years 2025-2029.
- Executive Programme between India and Kuwait on Cooperation in the field of Sports for 2025-2028 between the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India and Public Authority for Youth and Sports, Government of the State of Kuwait.
- Economic and Investment Focus: India invited Kuwaiti investors to explore opportunities in sectors like energy, pharmaceuticals, IT, and defence, with the aim to expand bilateral trade, which reached USD 10.47 billion in 2023-24.
- Both sides also discussed expediting the India-GCC Free Trade Agreement.
- Regional Security: Both nations condemned terrorism in all forms, emphasizing the disruption of terrorism financing and dismantling terror infrastructure. They also stressed cooperation in regional stability, particularly in West Asia.
- Vision 2035: Modi expressed India’s commitment to support Kuwait’s "Vision 2035" development plan, which focuses on transforming the country’s economy.
- Award: The Amir of Kuwait honored Modi with the prestigious Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer for his role in strengthening bilateral relations.
Impact:
- Strengthened Bilateral Ties: The strategic partnership between India and Kuwait will likely lead to more robust cooperation, not just in defence but also in economic and technological sectors.
- Increased Investment: The visit could lead to greater Kuwaiti investment in India, especially in the energy, defence, and pharmaceutical sectors, enhancing economic ties between the two nations.
- Enhanced Regional Stability: The focus on security and regional cooperation, particularly in countering terrorism, aligns India and Kuwait’s interests, strengthening their role in promoting peace and stability in West Asia.
Fact Box:India-Kuwait Relations
Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer
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