Kuwait: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with Kuwait’s highest national award, the Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer, in recognition of his significant role in strengthening the bilateral ties between Kuwait and India. The prestigious honour was bestowed by Kuwait’s Amir, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, during a ceremony on Sunday.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement confirming the award, noting that His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah presented the decoration to PM Modi, with the participation of Kuwait’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Ahmed Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah.
Prime Minister Modi, in his remarks, dedicated the honour to the enduring friendship between India and Kuwait, to the Indian community residing in Kuwait, and to the 1.4 billion people of India.
The Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer, established in 1974, is Kuwait’s highest national distinction, and has been awarded to select world leaders who have contributed significantly to the nation’s interests.
Earlier, upon his arrival at the Bayan Palace, Modi was given a ceremonial Guard of Honour. The Indian PM was warmly received by Kuwait’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Ahmed Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah.
The visit also included extensive talks between Modi and Kuwait’s Amir, Crown Prince, and Prime Minister, aimed at further strengthening ties between the two nations.
Prime Minister Modi’s two-day visit to Kuwait began on Saturday, following an invitation from His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. As part of his trip, Modi attended the opening ceremony of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup, held in Kuwait, where he was honoured as the ‘Guest of Honour.’ The prestigious event also served as a platform for informal discussions between the Indian leader and Kuwait’s leadership.
The Arabian Gulf Cup, a prominent sporting event in the region, features teams from eight countries, including members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Iraq, and Yemen. Kuwait has won the tournament more times than any other nation among the participants.