Krishna calls on Kuwait's Deputy Prime Minister

Kuwait, Feb 26 (ANI): External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna, who is presently in Kuwait on a three-day visit to represent India during the oil-rich Gulf state's 50th independence Day celebration, met Deputy Prime Minister Mohammad Al-Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah here on Friday.

Krishna's visit is seen as very important, since it will give India a first-hand account of the current state of affairs in the restive Middle-East region.

During his visit, Krishna will also call on Prime Minister Nasser Mohammad Al Ahmad Al-Sabah and have wide ranging discussions with his Kuwait counterpart on subjects of mutual interest.

He will also meet the Indian community, which numbers around 600,000 currently.

India and Kuwait enjoy long-standing close and friendly ties, based on historical linkages that have deepened and diversified over time.

Kuwait is an important trading partner for India. Trade between both countries was estimated to be around 10.5 billion dollars in 2009.

Kuwait is also an important partner in facilitating Indian's quest for energy security. By Ravinder Singh RobinANI)