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Strengthening Bilateral Relations

New Delhi: The seventh round of Foreign Office Consultations between India and Kuwait took place in New Delhi on Tuesday, focusing on enhancing bilateral relations. Officials from both nations engaged in discussions about various initiatives aimed at strengthening their strategic partnership across multiple sectors, including politics, trade, investment, defense, energy, culture, and community connections.

The meeting was co-chaired by Aseem Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf) from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), and Ambassador Sameeh Essa Johar Hayat, Assistant Foreign Minister for Asia Affairs from Kuwait's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

According to a statement from the MEA, the discussions included a thorough review of the bilateral relationship and an exchange of perspectives on regional and international matters of shared interest. The officials explored ongoing initiatives and potential avenues to enhance their strategic collaboration in various fields.

They committed to closely follow the roadmap established during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Kuwait in December 2024. Plans were made to convene the Joint Working Groups (JWGs) under the Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) at the earliest opportunity.

The next round of Foreign Office Consultations is set to occur in Kuwait at a mutually agreed date. Additionally, Sameeh Essa Johar Hayat met with Arun Kumar Chatterjee, Secretary (CPV & OIA).

The MEA highlighted the deep-rooted historical and multifaceted relations between India and Kuwait, noting that bilateral trade reached USD 10.2 billion annually for FY 2024-2025. The presence of over one million Indians in Kuwait underscores the strong people-to-people connections.

India was among the first nations to establish diplomatic relations with Kuwait after its independence in 1961, initially represented by a Trade Commissioner. The relationship was elevated to a 'Strategic Partnership' during PM Modi's visit to Kuwait in 2024.