Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded Kuwait’s highest civilian honor, ‘The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer’, on Sunday. The prestigious award was presented by the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.
About the Award
The ‘Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer’ is reserved for Heads of State, foreign Sovereigns, and members of royal families from other nations, marking it as a significant international accolade.
Strengthening India-Kuwait Relations
During his visit, PM Modi held bilateral talks with Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. These discussions aimed at enhancing India-Kuwait relations. According to Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, the talks focused on boosting bilateral ties and taking them to new heights.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Jaiswal shared, “A significant step forward: India-Kuwait relations elevated to a ‘Strategic Partnership’! PM @narendramodi met HH Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Amir of Kuwait at the Bayan Palace, Kuwait. Discussions focused on exploring ways to take India-Kuwait bilateral ties to new heights. PM expressed his gratitude to HH the Amir for the welfare of the Indian community in Kuwait.”
Ceremonial Welcome in Kuwait
Upon arrival, PM Modi received a grand ceremonial welcome, including a Guard of Honor at Bayan Palace. He was welcomed by Sheikh Ahmed Abdullah Al-Ahmed Al-Sabah, Kuwait’s Prime Minister, along with the Amir of Kuwait. The MEA shared the details of the welcome on X:
“A special welcome on a historic visit! PM @narendramodi arrives at the Bayan Palace in Kuwait to a ceremonial welcome and Guard of Honor. Extensive talks with HH the Amir, Crown Prince, and PM of Kuwait lie ahead.”
Historic Visit After 43 Years
This marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in 43 years. PM Modi’s two-day trip was at the invitation of the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.
Upon arrival, he was received by Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, Kuwait’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense and Interior, along with Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya and other officials.
Connecting with the Indian Community
The Indian community in Kuwait warmly welcomed PM Modi. Excitement was high ahead of his address at the community event ‘Hala Modi’, held at Shaikh Saad Al Abdullah Indoor Sports Complex.
During his visit to the Gulf Spic Labour Camp, PM Modi interacted with Indian workers, appreciating their contributions to Kuwait’s growth. He linked their aspirations to his vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047” (Developed India by 2047).