Why in the News?

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Kuwait's Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Al Yahya signed an MoU in New Delhi to form a Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC). The JCC will focus on sectors like trade, education, technology, security, and culture.

The leaders also discussed expanding ties and regional issues, with Prime Minister Modi expressing confidence in strengthening India-GCC cooperation under Kuwait's presidency. They emphasized enhancing collaboration in trade, investment, and people-to-people relations.

About Kuwait

• Location: Situated in the Persian Gulf, bordered by Iraq and Saudi Arabia.
• Capital: Kuwait City.
• Population: Approximately 4.5 million (with a large expatriate community).
• Official Language: Arabic.
• Currency: Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD), the world’s strongest currency.
• Government: Constitutional monarchy with an elected parliament.
• Current Emir: Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah (since 2020).
• Prime Minister: Sheikh Ahmad Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah.
• Economy
  • Oil Reserves: 5^th largest in the world; economy highly reliant on petroleum.
  • Diversification Efforts: Investment in finance, trade, and infrastructure to reduce dependence on oil.
  • GDP per Capita: Among the highest in the world.
• Foreign Relations
  • Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member and active participant in the Arab League, UN, and OPEC.
  • Known for a policy of neutrality and diplomatic efforts in the Middle East.
  • Strong ties with global powers, particularly the United States and regional partners.
• Culture
  • Rich Maritime History: Historically dependent on fishing, pearl diving, and trade.
  • Cultural Heritage: Blend of Arab and Islamic traditions with modern influences.
  • Traditional Handicrafts: Weaving, pottery, and silverwork.
• Key Historical Events
  • Gulf War (1990-1991): Kuwait was invaded by Iraq and later liberated by a U.S.-led coalition.
  • Humanitarian Contributions: Known for providing significant foreign aid to various nations.
• International Role
  • Humanitarian Efforts: Actively contributes to global humanitarian initiatives.
  • Strategic Importance: Despite its small size, Kuwait plays a significant role in both regional and global politics

Map of Kuwait (to scale)