EAM Jaishankar's Strategic Talks with Kuwait's Leadership to Elevate Bilateral Ties

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Kuwait's top leaders on Sunday to discuss enhancing bilateral relations and regional geopolitical developments. During his day-long visit, Jaishankar met Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah and conveyed greetings from India's President and Prime Minister. He expressed gratitude for the Crown Prince's guidance on strengthening ties.

Jaishankar also met Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmed Abdullah Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, sharing greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "Pleased to call on His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Abdullah Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Prime Minister of Kuwait. Conveyed the greetings of PM @narendramodi. Appreciated his perspectives on the deepening of India-Kuwait ties. Valued his views in regard to further economic cooperation," Jaishankar posted on X.

Strengthening Economic Cooperation

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that discussions focused on boosting bilateral cooperation, with a strong interest in enhancing economic partnerships in trade and investments. Both sides explored new areas for collaboration, particularly in pharmaceuticals, technology, and education. The streamlining of labour and manpower issues was also highlighted.

Jaishankar's meeting with Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya was described as "warm and productive." They reviewed their broad-based partnership covering political, trade, investment, health, education, people-to-people connections, and connectivity. "Exchanged views on the geopolitical developments in the region. Confident that our longstanding ties will continue to strengthen in the coming times," he said.

Community Engagement

During his visit, Jaishankar interacted with the Indian community in Kuwait, commending their achievements and contributions to India-Kuwait relations. He met prominent members of the community and representatives of various professional and community associations. The MEA noted that the large Indian community in Kuwait serves as a living bridge between the two nations.

The visit aimed to impart fresh momentum to bilateral relations and prepare a framework for future exchanges and concrete deliverables. The MEA emphasized that both countries are keen on giving more content to their economic partnership through greater exchanges at various levels.

Al-Yahya hosted a lunch banquet in honour of Jaishankar and his delegation. The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss avenues for deepening bilateral relations across all spheres.

This visit comes nearly two months after a tragic fire in Kuwait claimed the lives of 45 Indians among 49 foreign workers killed in June. The incident also left 50 others injured at a seven-storey building.