India & Kuwait Elevate Bilateral Ties to Strategic Partnership
Sujeet Yadav
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's official visit to Kuwait on December 21-22, 2024, marked a significant milestone in India-Kuwait relations, with the two nations elevating their bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership aimed at enhancing cooperation across diverse sectors including trade, defence, energy, and technology. During the visit, PM Modi was honoured with Kuwait's highest civilian award, 'The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer', reflecting the deep mutual respect between the two nations. A key highlight was the establishment of a Joint Commission on Cooperation (JCC), led by the Foreign Ministers of both countries, alongside the creation of new Joint Working Groups (JWGs) focused on trade, education, agriculture, security, and science and technology.
Defence collaboration took center stage with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Defence Cooperation, paving the way for joint military exercises, maritime security, coastal defence, and the co-production of defence equipment. Energy cooperation received a significant boost with Kuwait's membership in the International Solar Alliance (ISA), reinforcing shared commitments to renewable energy and low- carbon growth, while discussions were held to transition from a buyer- seller oil relationship to a comprehensive energy partnership spanning petrochemicals, gas exploration, and renewable energy. Economic engagement was another focus, with both sides agreeing to accelerate negotiations on a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT), foster trade and investments in sectors such as technology, tourism, healthcare, and logistics, and expand aviation connectivity through increased flight capacities. Cultural and sports diplomacy were strengthened with the renewal of the Cultural Exchange Programme (2025-2029) and the signing of the Executive Programme on Sports (2025-2028), facilitating greater exchanges in heritage, arts, and sports infrastructure develop-ment.
The two sides also reaffirmed their shared commitment to counter- terrorism, cybersecurity, and anti- money laundering, emphasising intelligence sharing and cooperation in combating transnational crimes. Health cooperation emerged as a priority with plans to establish Indian pharmaceutical plants in Kuwait and enhance bilateral collaboration in medical products. Technology and digital growth were identified as key drivers of future engagement, with the two nations agreeing to collaborate on AI, semiconductors, and e- Governance. Additionally, Kuwait expressed interest in investing in Indian food parks to bolster food security.
In multilateral forums, both countries advocated for UN reforms and Security Council expansion, with India welcoming Kuwait's entry as a 'Dialogue Partner' in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). Acknowledging the contributions of the Indian diaspora in Kuwait, both leaders underscored the importance of safeguarding their welfare and fostering deeper people- to- people ties. Prime Minister Modi concluded his visit by inviting Kuwait's leadership to India, reinforcing the enduring partnership between the two nations and setting the stage for expanded cooperation in the years ahead.
Symbolism and Strategic Timing
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's visit comes amidst a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape, particularly in the Middle East. Kuwait, a linchpin in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), has been actively diversifying its economy and expanding its strategic partnerships. As Gulf nations reassess alliances and chart new economic pathways, India's increa-sing engagement signals its readiness to play a greater role in the region's transformation. This move reflects a dual strategy- strengthening economic ties while fostering long- term geopolitical stability through strategic alliances.
India's energy security, trade interests, and expatriate welfare are intricately linked to the Gulf, making Kuwait a crucial partner. The visit by PM Modi serves as a proactive step in cementing India's place as a strategic ally to Kuwait, not just as an economic collaborator but as a reliable partner in development and security. By fostering deeper relations with Kuwait, India also aims to ensure stronger ties with the GCC, creating avenues for broader regional cooperation in sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and digital transformation.
The Diaspora as India's Strategic Lever
Prime Minister Modi's address at the 'Hala Modi' event in Kuwait underscored the invaluable role of the Indian diaspora in strengthening bilateral ties. By referring to the Indian community in Kuwait as a "mini India," Modi highlighted the essential contribution expatriates make to fostering cultural, economic, and social bridges between the two nations. This acknowledgment reflects India's broader diplomatic strategy, where the diaspora is not just seen as an extension of the nation but as an active agent of influence and goodwill.
The emphasis on the diaspora aligns with India's overarching foreign policy, which leverages soft power through shared values and cultural ties. Rather than relying solely on economic or military strength, India harnesses the bonds forged by its global community to deepen international relationships. The 'Hala Modi' event served as a platform to celebrate the achievements of the Indian diaspora while reinforcing their role as indispensable partners in India's global aspirations.
Shri Modi's recognition of Indian professionals in Kuwait- including doctors, paramedics, educators, and entrepreneurs-further amplifies this message. These individuals not only contribute to Kuwait's socio- economic growth but also embody Indian cultural values, fostering cross- cultural understanding and rein-forcing diplomatic goodwill. Their integration into Kuwaiti society enhances bila-teral trust and solidifies the Indian community's role as cultural ambassadors.
This narrative resonates with India's ambition to position itself as a global hub for skilled talent, with its human capital seen as a key export in the 21st century. As of 2023, over 1 million Indian nationals live and work in Kuwait, forming the largest expatriate community in the country. Indian workers significantly bolster Kuwait's economy, with many employed in construction, healthcare, and domestic services. According to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, remittances from the Gulf, including Kuwait, contribute over $50 billion annually to India's economy. This sizeable diaspora highlights India's capacity to supply skilled labour globally, reinforcing its image as a talent reservoir capable of driving development across borders.
Economic Collaboration:
A Shared Vision for Growth
Kuwait's Vision 2035 aims to reduce the nation's dependence on oil by diversifying into knowledge- driven industries such as technology, renewable energy, and services. India's rapidly expanding digital economy, innovation- driven start- up eco-system, and advancements in green technology offer a complementary pathway for collaboration. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in his 'Hala Modi' event speech strategically highlighted India's capabilities in these areas, aligning them with Kuwait's long- term goals.
Historical Bonds and Mutual Assistance
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's visit rekindled historical narratives that reinforce the depth of India- Kuwait relations. His reference to the use of Indian rupees in Kuwait six decades ago harkened back to an era of robust economic interlinkages. Such anecdotes are more than just nostalgia; they serve as diplomatic tools to remind both nations of their shared past and interconnected destinies.
The solidarity exhibited during the COVID-19 pandemic further exemplifies this bond. Kuwait's supply of liquid oxygen to India during a critical juncture exemplified the spirit of mutual assistance that underpins the relationship. PM Modi's acknowledgment of this gesture reflects India's appreciation of Kuwait's goodwill, reinforcing the notion that bilateral ties extend beyond transactional exchanges to rest on a foundation of mutual trust and support.
Cultural Diplomacy and Global Connectivity
At the heart of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's address was the invocation of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam"-the world is one family. This ancient Indian philosophy encapsulates India's global vision for inclusive growth and shared prosperity. By extending invitations to Kuwaiti nationals to partake in Indian cultural events like the Maha Kumbh Mela and Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, PM Modi emphasised cultural diplomacy as a tool for fostering deeper bilateral understanding.
This outreach of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi marks a defining chapter in India's diplomatic playbook for the Gulf region. As the first Indian Prime Minister to set foot in Kuwait in over four decades, this historic trip underscores India's renewed commitment to deepening bilateral relations, grounded in economic cooperation and cultural affinity. The 'Hala Modi' event, marked by a jubilant reception from the Indian diaspora, epitomises the role of people- to- people connections in driving diplomatic initiatives.
Sector
|
Agreement/Programme
|
Objective/Key Focus Areas
|
Defence Cooperation
|
MoU on Cooperation in Defence
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- Joint training exercises
- Exchange of military personnel and experts
- Collaboration in defence industry
- Supply of defence equipment
- Research and development cooperation
|
Cultural Exchange
|
Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP) 2025-2029
|
- Art, music, dance, literature, and theatre
- Preservation of cultural heritage
- Research and
development in cultural studies
- Organisation of cultural festivals
|
Sports Diplomacy
|
Executive Programme (EP) for Cooperation in Sports (2025-2028)
|
- Exchange of sports delegations and leaders
- Joint sports projects and events
- Collaboration in sports medicine, management, and science
- Development of sports infrastructure
|
Renewable Energy
|
Kuwait's Membership of the International Solar Alliance (ISA)
|
- Deployment of solar energy
- Addressing barriers to solar energy scaling
- Developing low- carbon growth pathways
|
Digital Transformation and Technological Synergies
One of the standout moments of PM Modi's address was his reference to India's optical fibre expansion, metaphorically described as spanning "eight times the Earth-Moon distance." This striking comparison underscores India's rapid advancements in digital infrastructure, reflecting the country's commitment to digital inclusion and connectivity.
Why This Matters to Kuwait: Kuwait is actively pursuing smart city projects and enhancing its ICT infrastructure as part of its economic diversification strategy. India's experience in large- scale digital transformation, fintech innovation, and e- governance creates a natural alignment for bilateral collaboration. Indian tech companies can play a crucial role in helping Kuwait build digital highways, e- services, and smart governance platforms.
Potential Areas of Collaboration:
· Smart City Development - Indian expertise in urban tech solutions can support Kuwait's smart city initiatives.
· Fintech Partnerships - Leveraging India's fintech prowess to develop Kuwaiti digital payment systems and financial inclusion strategies.
· Cybersecurity and ICT - Joint ventures to strengthen digital infrastructure and protect critical sectors.
Renewable Energy - Green Growth Pathways
Kuwait's decision to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA) signifies a pivotal moment in strengthening bilateral ties in renewable energy. ISA, spearheaded by India, focusses on scaling solar energy globally and addressing barriers in financing and technology deployment.
Strategic Significance: Kuwait's heavy reliance on fossil fuels has driven the need to invest in sustainable energy. India, having established itself as a global leader in renewable energy deployment, presents opportunities for joint initiatives in solar farms, green hydrogen, and low-carbon growth pathways.
Economic Benefits for Both Nations:
· Technology Transfer - India can provide expertise in solar technology and project execution.
· Investment Opportunities - Kuwaiti investments in Indian solar projects contribute to economic diversification.
· Green Job Creation - Collaborative projects can foster new employment opportunities in both countries.
Defence Cooperation - Strengthening Economic Security
The MoU on Defence Cooperation lays the groundwork for a robust economic and strategic partnership. By expanding cooperation in joint training exercises, defence production, and equipment supply, the agreement not only enhances military capabilities but also opens up economic opportunities.
Key Economic Impacts:
· Joint Ventures in Defence Manufacturing - India's growing defence industry can engage in co-production with Kuwaiti firms.
· R&D Collaboration - Fostering innovation through shared defence research initiatives.
· Supply Chain Development - Strengthening the supply of defence equipment can catalyse industrial growth and skill development.
Cultural Exchange - Soft Power as an Economic Driver
The Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP) 2025-2029 focusses on promoting art, music, dance, theatre, and literature between the two nations. While often seen as a diplomatic tool, cultural exchange can significantly contribute to economic
collaboration by boosting tourism, creative industries, and heritage conservation projects.
Economic Dimensions of Cultural Exchange:
· Tourism Growth - Joint festivals and art exhibitions attract cross-border tourism.
· Creative Economy - Facilitating joint film productions, digital arts, and literary events can stimulate economic activity in cultural sectors.
· Heritage Conservation - Collaborating on cultural heritage preservation projects creates jobs and enhances local economies.
Sports Diplomacy - A Platform for Economic Engagement
The Executive Programme (EP) for Cooperation in Sports (2025-2028) emphasises sports infrastructure development, knowledge exchange, and collaboration in sports medicine and management.
Why Sports Matter:
· Infrastructure Development - Indian companies can contribute to building and upgrading sports facilities in Kuwait.
· Training and Education - Indian expertise in sports science and management can enhance Kuwait's sporting capabilities.
· Events and Tournaments - Joint sports events can drive tourism, hospitality, and related industries.
(The author is correspondent of a international multi- media platform. Feedback can be sent to feedback. employmentnews@gmail.com).
Views expressed are personal.