Kuwait focused on the importance of strengthening Arab-India relations during the second ministerial meeting of the Arab-India Cooperation Forum. Officials highlighted opportunities to expand investment, advance technology, and promote artificial intelligence and vocational training.
Kuwait’s Permanent Representative to the Arab League led the delegation and conveyed greetings to India on its 77th Republic Day. He also thanked the Arab League Secretariat for supporting the forum since its creation. The meeting provided a platform to evaluate progress since the first ministerial session in Manama in 2016.
Delegates discussed the Manama Declaration, which focused on political consultation, regional stability, peacekeeping, counterterrorism, and Security Council reforms. They also addressed economic, cultural, educational, and technological cooperation. Participants stressed that strengthening Arab-India relations requires practical programs and continuous follow-up.
Kuwait expressed readiness to work with India and Arab countries to turn forum outcomes into actionable initiatives. Officials emphasized the importance of collaboration on global challenges, including supply chain stability and food security, to meet both regional and international needs.
Looking at bilateral ties, Kuwait highlighted its 65-year diplomatic relationship with India. The ambassador noted that the 2024 visit by India’s Prime Minister to Kuwait marked a milestone in cooperation. Trade between the countries exceeded $10 billion in 2024–2025, and both sides aim to grow investment, especially Indian participation in Kuwait’s economy.
Delegates also highlighted growing collaboration in technology, AI, and technical training. India continues to play a key role as a food supplier, while Kuwait remains a major energy provider. Officials expressed interest in exploring modern energy technologies to support mutual development. The Indian community in Kuwait, numbering nearly one million, was recognized for its social and economic contributions.
On international issues, Kuwait reaffirmed support for Arab causes, including Palestinian statehood based on the June 4, 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. Officials called for adherence to international agreements and ongoing peace efforts in the region.
India’s Prime Minister emphasized deep-rooted people-to-people ties with the Arab world, highlighting trade, investment, healthcare, energy, and technology. He reiterated India’s support for Palestinian efforts and welcomed continued cooperation with Arab countries to ensure regional stability.
Overall, the meeting underscored that strengthening Arab-India relations can create lasting economic, technological, and political benefits. Both sides committed to advancing cooperation, demonstrating that strategic partnerships remain essential for regional growth. Protecting these ties is key to mutual success, making strengthening Arab-India relations a central priority.
