Kuwait City: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address to the Indian diaspora at the “Hala Modi” event in Kuwait resonated with a message of unity, pride, and shared achievements. Speaking to a packed audience of Indian expatriates, the Prime Minister highlighted the indelible connection between India and Kuwait, celebrating the vibrant contributions of the Indian community in fostering ties between the two nations.
“Mini Hindustan in Kuwait”: A Cultural Tapestry
Addressing the audience shortly after his arrival, PM Modi expressed his admiration for the cultural diversity of the Indian diaspora. “It feels like a mini Hindustan has sprung up here,” he said, acknowledging the various languages and traditions represented in the gathering. He extended warm wishes for the upcoming festive season, including Christmas, New Year, Pongal, Lohri, and Makar Sankranti.
For the first time in over four decades, an Indian Prime Minister visited Kuwait, a moment PM Modi described as personally significant. He praised the Indian community for enriching Kuwaiti society with their talent, skills, and traditions. “You have added the tadka of Indianness to Kuwaiti culture,” he remarked, emphasizing their role in building bridges between the two nations.
Strengthening Bonds of Respect and Recognition
PM Modi highlighted the invaluable contributions of Indians in Kuwait, from construction workers and healthcare professionals to teachers and engineers. He lauded the hard work and integrity that have earned the community respect from both the Kuwaiti leadership and citizens. “Whenever I talk to Kuwait’s leadership, they always praise you,” he noted, adding that the Indian diaspora significantly contributes to India’s global leadership in remittances.
The Prime Minister reflected on the centuries-old ties between India and Kuwait, rooted in trade and culture. From the pearl and spice trade to modern investments, the relationship has evolved into a robust partnership. “Our connection is not only of diplomacy but of the heart,” he said. Recalling historical anecdotes, PM Modi pointed out that Indian Rupees were once the currency of choice in Kuwait, underscoring the deep economic and cultural linkages.
A Partnership for Prosperity
In a forward-looking message, PM Modi spoke about the shared aspirations of India and Kuwait. While Kuwait is striving to become a dynamic economy, India is progressing toward becoming a developed nation by 2047. He emphasized India’s potential as a hub for innovation, technology, and skilled manpower, which aligns with Kuwait’s vision for modernization.
“India’s start-ups can offer cutting-edge solutions for Kuwait’s needs, from fintech to healthcare and smart cities to green technology,” PM Modi stated. He encouraged Kuwaiti companies to explore investment opportunities in India, which is home to one of the world’s largest fintech and start-up ecosystems.
A Global Leader in Digital Transformation
Highlighting India’s advancements, PM Modi shared remarkable achievements in digital connectivity. “In the last 10 years, India has laid optical fiber eight times the distance between the Earth and the Moon,” he said, underlining the nation’s strides in technology. From digital payments to seamless travel systems like DigiYatra, India is setting benchmarks in global innovation.
PM Modi also celebrated India’s recent space milestones, such as the success of Mangalyaan and Chandrayaan missions, asserting that “every Indian takes pride in these achievements.”
India: A Global Partner for Peace and Progress
As the world celebrates the first-ever World Meditation Day on December 21, PM Modi credited India’s ancient traditions of yoga and meditation for inspiring this global initiative. He also highlighted India’s efforts in promoting sustainable nutrition through the International Millets Year and its pivotal role in global wellness through Ayurveda.
Reaffirming India’s commitment to international cooperation, he cited the recently announced India-Middle East-Europe Corridor during the G20 Summit as a transformative project for global connectivity.
An Invitation to Join India’s Growth Story
PM Modi called upon the diaspora to actively participate in India’s journey toward becoming a global leader. He invited the community to attend significant upcoming events, including Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Bhubaneswar and the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, while urging them to bring their Kuwaiti friends to explore India’s rich culture.
A Message of Gratitude and Hope
The Prime Minister expressed deep gratitude to Kuwait’s leadership, particularly His Highness the Amir, for their unwavering support to the Indian community, especially during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the tragic Mangaf fire incident earlier this year.
Concluding his speech, PM Modi celebrated the enduring spirit of friendship and mutual respect between India and Kuwait. “The journey of a developed India is incomplete without your cooperation,” he told the diaspora. As the Arabian Gulf Cup commenced, PM Modi expressed his pride in being the Guest of Honour and thanked Kuwait for honouring India’s contributions.
With his inspiring words, PM Modi reaffirmed the Indian community’s pivotal role in strengthening the India-Kuwait partnership, setting the stage for a brighter, more collaborative future.
