PM Modi Attends Arabian Gulf Cup Opening In Kuwait, Likens Indian Diaspora To 'Mini-Hindustan'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the opening ceremony of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup as the 'guest of honour' on Saturday, where he met the Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah. The event was held at the Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium in Kuwait City.

This visit marks the first by an Indian prime minister to Kuwait in 43 years, undertaken at the invitation of the Kuwaiti Emir.

Photo Credit: PTI

In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi shared a photograph with the Emir and wrote, "Glad to have met His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah during the opening ceremony of the Arabian Gulf Cup."

A statement from the Ministry of External Affairs noted that the event provided an opportunity for the leaders to engage informally.

The biennial Arabian Gulf Cup, hosted by Kuwait, features eight teams, including Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, Iraq, and Yemen. The host city is set to face Oman in the opening match. As one of the region's most prominent sporting events, the tournament boasts Kuwait as its most successful participant historically.

Prime Minister Modi extended his best wishes to all the teams competing in the tournament.

PM Modi addresses Indian diaspora

Earlier, the Prime Minister addressed a large gathering of the Indian diaspora at a special event titled 'Hala Modi' at the Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Indoor Sports Complex.

During his speech, he commended the Indian community's contributions to global development, asserting that India has the potential to become the "skill capital of the world".

"Every year, hundreds of Indians come to Kuwait. You have added an Indian touch to Kuwaiti society. You have filled the canvas of Kuwait with the colours of Indian skills. You have mixed the essence of India's talent, technology, and tradition in Kuwait," said Modi.

He further highlighted the role of Indian teachers in nurturing the next generation of Kuwaiti citizens and acknowledged the work of Indian engineers and architects in shaping Kuwait's future infrastructure.

The Prime Minister also urged the diaspora to support India's journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047, stating that the country is progressing as a "Vishwa Bandhu" (friend of the world) with global welfare in mind.

Expressing delight at the diverse representation of Indians in Kuwait, he described it as a "mini-Hindustan".

On Sunday, PM Modi is set to meet with the Emir, the Crown Prince, and the Prime Minister of Kuwait.

(With PTI inputs)