India and Kuwait Strengthen Strategic Ties at Foreign Office Consultations in New Delhi
India and Kuwait reaffirmed their strong and multifaceted bilateral partnership during the 7th Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) held in New Delhi on Tuesday. The high-level meeting marked another step forward in deepening cooperation across key sectors including trade, energy, defence, and people-to-people relations.
The consultations were co-chaired by Shri Aseem R. Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf), Ministry of External Affairs of India, and H.E. Sameeh Essa Johar Hayat, Assistant Foreign Minister for Asia Affairs of the State of Kuwait.
Strategic Review of Bilateral Ties
Both sides held a comprehensive review of their bilateral relations and exchanged views on regional and global developments of shared interest. The talks underscored the importance both countries place on their long-standing partnership, which is rooted in mutual trust, cultural ties, and economic cooperation.
Discussions focused on enhancing collaboration in:
- Bilateral trade and investment
- Defence and security cooperation
- Energy, including oil supply and clean energy initiatives
- Cultural exchanges and education
- Consular and diaspora-related affairs
Trade and Economic Engagement
Bilateral trade between India and Kuwait reached USD 10.2 billion during the financial year 2024–2025. Both sides emphasized the potential for expanding economic ties through diversification of the trade basket, encouraging private sector investment, and facilitating business exchanges.
They also discussed enhancing collaboration in digital technologies, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and infrastructure.
Focus on Energy and Defence
Energy cooperation remains a vital pillar of the relationship. India and Kuwait reviewed ongoing oil trade and discussed the potential for cooperation in green energy, including renewables, clean fuels, and energy transition technologies.
In the defence domain, both delegations agreed to explore avenues for deeper cooperation, including joint training programs, maritime collaboration, and high-level defence dialogues.
Implementing the Strategic Vision
A key outcome of the consultations was the reaffirmed commitment to implementing the strategic roadmap established during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s landmark visit to Kuwait in December 2024. That visit elevated the relationship and laid the foundation for a forward-looking partnership.
As part of this commitment, both nations agreed to convene meetings of the Joint Working Groups (JWGs) under the India–Kuwait Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) in the near future.
Strengthening People-to-People and Cultural Ties
Kuwait is home to more than 1 million Indian nationals, making the Indian diaspora one of the largest and most vibrant communities in the country. Both sides reiterated the importance of protecting the welfare and rights of Indian workers and discussed mechanisms to improve labour mobility, skills recognition, and community support.
Cultural exchanges, academic collaborations, and tourism promotion were also discussed as areas to further deepen people-to-people engagement.
Next Steps
Both countries agreed that the next round of Foreign Office Consultations will take place in Kuwait at a mutually convenient time. Meanwhile, ongoing communication through established diplomatic and working group channels will ensure the implementation of decisions made during the consultations.
