India and Kuwait Elevate Bilateral Relations to Strategic Partnership

{IMAGE – FINANCIAL EXPRESS}

In a major step forward, India and Kuwait have strengthened their relationship to become strategic partners, signaling a fresh chapter in their collaboration. This important change was officially confirmed during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kuwait on December 21-22, 2024.

Key Agreements Signed – During the visit, several key agreements were signed to strengthen collaboration across various sectors:

• Defence Cooperation: An agreement called the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Defence Cooperation was signed. Its goal is to strengthen military teamwork, joint training, and sharing of information between the two countries.

• Cultural Exchange: A program for cultural exchange was created to help people understand each other better and share their cultural traditions.

• Sports Collaboration: A plan was made to work together on sports projects to help share ideas and improve sports activities.

• International Solar Alliance: Kuwait has decided to join the International Solar Alliance, showing its support for clean and renewable energy efforts.

Kuwait continues to be one of India’s key trading partners, with trade between the two countries reaching $10.47 billion in the 2023-24 financial year. The strong relationship is likely to strengthen economic cooperation, especially in areas like energy, infrastructure, and technology.

Recognition of Leadership – In recognition of his efforts to strengthen bilateral relations, Prime Minister Modi was conferred with Kuwait’s highest national award, ‘The Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer.’ 

Joint Commission on Cooperation – Both countries were pleased with the recent creation of a Joint Commission on Cooperation (JCC), a formal body led by the Foreign Ministers of both nations. The JCC will oversee and track all aspects of their bilateral relationship, making sure that agreed-upon plans are carried out effectively.

Strategic Significance – This important partnership fits with Kuwait’s Vision 2035, which sees India as a major ally in reaching its development goals. The stronger collaboration is likely to greatly help in bringing stability and economic growth to the region.

BY – NIKITA