Historical Ties: From Early Diplomacy to Strategic Cooperation
India and Kuwait have shared longstanding and multifaceted relations rooted in history, trade, and cultural exchange. India was among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with Kuwait following its independence in 1961, initially represented through a Commerce Commissioner before opening a full-fledged embassy. Over the decades, the relationship expanded to encompass trade, energy, and community linkages. A milestone came in December 2024, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit elevated bilateral relations to the level of a strategic partnership, laying out a roadmap for future cooperation.
Today, with more than one million Indians living and working in Kuwait, people-to-people ties remain the cornerstone of this enduring partnership, while bilateral trade has surged to USD 10.2 billion in FY 2024–25.
The Seventh Round of Foreign Office Consultations
On Tuesday, New Delhi hosted the seventh round of Foreign Office Consultations between India and Kuwait, signaling both nations’ commitment to expanding their strategic engagement. The talks were co-chaired by Aseem R. Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf) in India’s Ministry of External Affairs, and Sameeh Essa Johar Hayat, Assistant Foreign Minister for Asia Affairs from Kuwait.
The consultations reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral ties and exchanged views on pressing regional and international developments. Both sides reiterated their intent to strengthen cooperation in key domains, including politics, trade and investment, defence, energy, culture, and community relations.
Building on the Roadmap from Modi’s Kuwait Visit
A central theme of the dialogue was the commitment to implement the roadmap agreed upon during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Kuwait in December 2024. This blueprint serves as a guiding framework for strengthening strategic cooperation across multiple sectors.
Officials agreed to convene meetings of the Joint Working Groups (JWGs) under the Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) at the earliest, ensuring progress in priority areas. These include expanding trade avenues, boosting energy collaboration, and enhancing defence and security ties.
The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that both countries will “continue to work closely” in advancing this agenda, reflecting the strong political will at the leadership level.
Expanding Diplomatic Engagement
Alongside the formal consultations, Ambassador Sameeh Essa Johar Hayat held discussions with Arun Kumar Chatterjee, Secretary for Consular, Passports & Visa (CPV) and Overseas Indian Affairs (OIA). Their interaction underscored the importance of the large Indian diaspora in Kuwait, which forms a vital link between the two nations and contributes significantly to Kuwait’s economy.
Furthermore, it was agreed that the next round of Foreign Office Consultations would take place in Kuwait on mutually convenient dates, sustaining the momentum of high-level engagement.
Trade and Community: Twin Pillars of Partnership
Bilateral trade of USD 10.2 billion highlights the economic depth of India-Kuwait ties. Energy remains the backbone, with India sourcing significant crude oil from Kuwait, while India exports a range of goods, including machinery, textiles, and food products. The Indian community in Kuwait—over one million strong—not only cements cultural and social bonds but also represents a bridge for furthering bilateral understanding.
These connections highlight that the partnership extends well beyond government corridors, embedding itself in the daily lives and aspirations of both nations.
Towards a Stronger Future
The seventh round of Foreign Office Consultations has reaffirmed that India and Kuwait are not merely partners of convenience but strategic allies shaping a forward-looking agenda. By committing to the implementation of a long-term roadmap, expanding trade, and deepening cultural and people-to-people ties, both countries are laying a foundation for enduring cooperation.
As Kuwait continues to diversify its economy and India seeks reliable energy partners and greater Gulf engagement, the partnership stands poised to enter a new phase. Anchored in history yet focused on the future, India and Kuwait’s relationship is evolving into a model of pragmatic, mutually beneficial diplomacy in the region.
(With agency inputs)
