‘Visit of Sarthak is more than a protocol event; it marks a milestone in defense cooperation’
Indian Ambassador highlights growing India–Kuwait partnership during ICGS Sarthak visit
The Times Kuwait Report
Indian Ambassador to Kuwait, H.E. Paramita Tripathi, emphasized that India–Kuwait relations are entering a new phase of expansion and advancement, built on a long history of dialogue, friendship, and partnership.
She made the remarks during a reception hosted by the Indian Embassy aboard the Indian Coast Guard ship ICGS Sarthak, currently visiting Kuwait for four days.
The event, attended by senior diplomatic and military officials, highlighted the strength and depth of bilateral ties.
The Indian envoy underscored that the ship’s visit is more than ceremonial; it marks a milestone in the rapidly growing defense partnership, reflecting strong mutual trust and shared ambitions.
She described the visit as “a significant marker” of India’s commitment to strengthening long-standing friendship with Kuwait and noted that both nations share a vital role in securing the Arabian Gulf and protecting key maritime routes.
The ship also demonstrates India’s maritime capabilities, professionalism, readiness, and humanitarian service ethos.
Highlighting the broad scope of India–Kuwait collaboration, the ambassador noted cooperation across energy, food security, health, education, and technology, recalling the support both countries extended to each other during the COVID-19 pandemic.
She traced key milestones shaping the modern phase of bilateral relations, starting with the 2006 historic visit of the late Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to India, followed by the 2009 visit of Indian Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari.
Tripathi also cited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kuwait last December, which marked a new chapter with His Highness the Amir conferring the Mubarak Al-Kabir Order and signing four agreements, including the Defense Cooperation MoU.
Noting the defense collaboration, she recalled the 2017 visit of Kuwait’s Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Mohammed Khaled Al-Khudher to India as a turning point, strengthened further during the pandemic.
In 2023, the two countries held their first joint defense seminar, creating an institutional platform linking policymakers, experts, and the defense industry.
Looking ahead, Tripathi expressed India’s eagerness to expand cooperation in maritime security, renewable energy, digital innovation, food security, and healthcare, saying, “India stands ready to work hand-in-hand with Kuwait for a more prosperous and stable future for our peoples.”
She also praised the Indian community in Kuwait, describing it as “an essential bridge of connection” that reinforces the deep friendship between the two nations and contributes significantly to Kuwait’s economy and society.
