India and Kuwait have formalized their status as strategic partners, emphasizing enhanced collaboration in defence and trade. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also explored opportunities in IT, fintech, pharmaceuticals, and infrastructure during talks with Kuwaiti leaders.
India and Kuwait Elevate Ties to Strategic Partnership During Landmark Bilateral Meeting
Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India and Kuwait’s Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah elevated their relationship to a “strategic partnership” during a bilateral meeting on Sunday, December 22. The partnership will focus on strengthening trade and defence cooperation.
The announcement came after Kuwait honored PM Modi with its highest civilian award, The Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer, in recognition of his significant efforts to enhance bilateral ties.
PM Modi’s two-day visit to Kuwait, starting Saturday, marked the first trip by an Indian Prime Minister in 43 years, following Indira Gandhi’s visit in 1981. Modi was accompanied by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.
During his visit, Modi met Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, who hosted a banquet in his honor. He also engaged in high-level discussions with the Prime Minister of Kuwait, Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah.
A comprehensive agreement on defence cooperation was signed, covering areas such as joint training, personnel exchange, joint exercises, equipment supply, and research and development collaboration.
Beyond defence, three Memoranda of Understanding were signed to enhance cooperation in sports, culture, and solar energy.
“We discussed collaboration in key sectors like pharmaceuticals, IT, FinTech, infrastructure, and security. In line with the close ties between our nations, we have elevated our partnership to a strategic one,” PM Modi posted on X.
