India and Kuwait enjoy traditionally friendly relations, rooted in history and have stood the test of time. Certain factors like Geographic proximity, historical trade links, cultural affinities and presence of large number of Indian nationals in Kuwait continue to sustain and nurture this long-standing relationship.
Political Relations
Well, in terms of political relations, many famous personalities had visited Kuwait like Dr. Zakir Husain in 1965, by Prime Minister Smt. Indira Gandhi in 1981 and by Vice President Shri Hamid Ansari in 2009.
Similarly, famous Kuwaiti personalities had made their visits to India like, The Crown Prince and Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah in 1964, the Amir Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah in 1980 and again in 1983 (for the NAM Summit), the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah in 2006 and the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah in November 2013.
Trade/ Economy
As part of its efforts to improve and increase trade, commerce and tourism, the Indian Embassy in Kuwait regularly organizes trade exhibitions, seminars and facilitates participation of Indian delegations in international trade exhibitions in Kuwait, as well as encourage business delegations from Kuwait to visit India.
In March 2019, the embassy organized a two-day exhibition, ‘Best of Indian Healthcare Expo 2019’, which witnessed participation of over 20 exhibitors, including leading Indian hospitals and healthcare centers, alternative healthcare providers, wellness centers and prominent medical travel planners from various parts of India, showcasing India’s finest healthcare advancements.
. India’s exports to Kuwait included food items, cereals, textiles, garments, electrical and engineering equipment, machinery and mechanical appliances, cars, trucks, buses, tyres, chemicals, jewellery, handicrafts, metal products, iron and steel, etc.
Kuwait remains a reliable supplier of crude oil &LPG to India, meeting our crucial energy needs.
Contributions
India and Kuwait participate in various global forums and international gatherings where the two sides share consensus on issues of global dimension and support just causes around the world. Both countries have called for non-interference in the internal matters of other countries, constructive engagement over aggression, non-discriminatory global trade practices, equitable global responsibility for the protection of the environment, disarmament, regional stability, international peace and sustainable growth among other issues
Education:
•There are 21 Indian schools in Kuwait which are providing education to nearly 47,000 Indian and foreign students.
•All these schools are affiliated to Central Board of Second Education (CBSE) and follow CBSE curriculum. Besides, there are around 70 Indians students who are pursuing their higher studies in different universities in Kuwait.
•In addition, many Indian and foreign students are enrolled in Distance Education Programmes of Indian universities to study graduate/post graduate courses.
The endearing interdependence of India and Kuwait adds the vibrant shades to their healthy friendship and relationship. Both the countries remain friendly and helpful to each other. Long Live Indo-Kuwaiti Friendship.