Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded the Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer on December 22, 2024. This prestigious honour was conferred by Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of Kuwait. The award signifies strong bilateral relations between India and Kuwait. It reflects historical ties and mutual respect.
Overview of the Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer
The Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer is Kuwait’s highest national award. It is presented to Heads of State, foreign royals, and dignitaries. Instituted in 1974, it honours the legacy of Mubarak Al Sabah, who ruled from 1896 to 1915. Mubarak is credited with granting Kuwait greater autonomy from the Ottoman Empire. The award’s design was updated in 1992 after Kuwait regained sovereignty from Iraq.
Notable Recipients
Several prominent figures have received this award. Past recipients include Queen Elizabeth II, former U.S. Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton, and King Salman of Saudi Arabia. The award serves as a symbol of goodwill and friendship between Kuwait and the recipient’s country.
Significance of PM Modi’s Award
PM Modi dedicated the award to the enduring friendship between India and Kuwait. He acknowledged the Indian community in Kuwait and the 1.4 billion people of India. This visit marked the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 43 years, adding historical significance to the occasion. The last Indian Prime Minister to visit was Indira Gandhi in 1981.
India-Kuwait Relations
India and Kuwait share strong economic ties. Bilateral trade reached $10.47 billion in 2023-24. Kuwait is India’s sixth largest supplier of crude oil, meeting three per cent of India’s energy needs. Indian exports to Kuwait surpassed $2 billion for the first time. The Kuwait Investment Authority has invested over $10 billion in India. Historical links date back to pre-oil Kuwait, with maritime trade forming the backbone of their economy. The Indian rupee was legal tender in Kuwait until 1961.
Cultural and Historical Ties
Cultural exchanges have flourished between the two nations. The Indian diaspora in Kuwait has played role in enhancing bilateral relations. These ties have evolved from trade to comprehensive partnerships in various sectors, including energy and investment.
Recent Developments
The award comes at a time of strengthening Indo-Kuwaiti relations. Both nations are exploring new avenues for cooperation. The focus is on enhancing trade, investment, and cultural exchanges. This recognition of PM Modi reinforces the commitment to a robust partnership for the future.
Questions for UPSC:
- Examine the historical significance of the Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer in Kuwaiti diplomacy.
- Critically discuss the impact of Indian expatriates on Kuwait’s economy and society.
- What are the key factors that have shaped India-Kuwait relations over the years? Point out the major developments.
- Analyse the role of energy trade in strengthening the bilateral ties between India and Kuwait.
Answer Hints:
1. Examine the historical significance of the Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer in Kuwaiti diplomacy.
- Established in 1974, it honors Kuwait’s historical leaders and reflects national pride.
- Serves as a diplomatic tool to strengthen relationships with foreign nations.
- Recognizes contributions of global leaders, enhancing Kuwait’s international stature.
- Previous recipients include prominent figures, showcasing Kuwait’s diplomatic outreach.
- Design changes post-liberation symbolize Kuwait’s resilience and renewed sovereignty.
2. Critically discuss the impact of Indian expatriates on Kuwait’s economy and society.
- Indian expatriates constitute portion of Kuwait’s labor force, driving economic growth.
- They contribute to various sectors, including construction, healthcare, and services.
- Indian businesses enhance trade relations, with exports growing to $2 billion recently.
- Cultural integration encourages social harmony, enriching Kuwait’s multicultural landscape.
- Remittances from Indian workers boost both economies, supporting families back home.
3. What are the key factors that have shaped India-Kuwait relations over the years? Point out the major developments.
- Historical maritime trade established early ties, dating back to pre-oil Kuwait.
- Political visits, like PM Modi’s recent trip, have strengthened diplomatic relations.
- Bilateral trade has surged, reaching $10.47 billion in 2023-24, enhancing economic ties.
- Kuwait’s role as a major crude supplier has solidified energy partnerships.
- Investment flows, with Kuwait investing over $10 billion in India, deepen economic cooperation.
4. Analyse the role of energy trade in strengthening the bilateral ties between India and Kuwait.
- Kuwait supplies 3% of India’s crude oil needs, vital for energy security.
- Energy trade facilitates economic interdependence, encouraging mutual benefits.
- Joint ventures in energy exploration enhance collaboration in the sector.
- Stable energy ties support broader economic relations, including investments and trade.
- Energy cooperation is a mainstay of the strategic partnership between the two nations.
