India-Kuwait Relationship: More Than Just Friendship

Mariyam F.S., 8-B, Kuwait Indian School

Wednesday, February 19, 2020

“A nation’s culture resides in the hearts and in the soul of its people.”

Kuwait’s culture is based on Arab culture, traditions and practices and it is both Urbans and Bedouin. India is country with distinct and unique cultures. It’s religions, music, architecture, food, customs and traditions vary from state to state.

Indo-Kuwait relations have always had an important trade dimension. Kuwait and India’s relations had been warm and friendly but was strained during the Gulf war and the Babri Masjid incident. However, Kuwait and India continued their relation as best friends.

India was among the earliest countries to recognize Kuwait’s independence while Kuwait was one of the first countries to extend support to India during the war with China in 1962. Kuwait houses a large number of Indian expats and is the source for 10-12% of India’s oil imports while India is among the largest trade partners of Kuwait. It has been a natural trading partner of Kuwait and until 1961, Indians rupee was the currency used in Kuwait. There are nearly 21 Indian Schools in Kuwait which are providing education to nearly 47,000 Indian and foreign students. The Indian community is the largest expatriate community in Kuwait.

Kuwait and India have always shown signs of friendship towards each other and I hope that they continue to be best friends and no obstacle obstruct their friendship.

Mariyam F.S., 8-B, Kuwait Indian School

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