BY MOHAMMAD TARIQUE SALEEM
Kuwait’s Envoy to Mumbai, His Excellency Emad Al Kharaz, reaffirmed the enduring friendship between India and Kuwait while addressing a distinguished gathering at the National Day gala in Mumbai. Celebrating the 65th National Day and 35th Liberation Day of the State of Kuwait, he highlighted the deep historical ties, vibrant economic partnership, and strong people-to-people connections that unite the two nations. Emphasizing Kuwait Vision 2035, he invited greater Indian participation in the country’s transformative journey. The evening stood as a powerful reminder of shared trust, mutual respect, and a future shaped by cooperation and common aspirations.
The grand ballroom of ‘The St. Regis’ Mumbai came alive with warmth, elegance, and a deep sense of shared pride as the Consulate of the State of Kuwait celebrated the 65th National Day and the 35th Liberation Day of Kuwait. The evening was not just about diplomatic protocol or ceremonial speeches, it was about history, resilience, gratitude, and a friendship that has stood the test of time.
As dignitaries, diplomats, business leaders, and members of the Indian and Kuwaiti communities gathered under sparkling chandeliers, there was a palpable feeling of respect and connection in the air. When His Excellency Emad Al Kharaz, Consul General of the State of Kuwait in Mumbai, stepped up to address the gathering, his words carried both pride and emotion.
“It is with great honor and deep pride that I welcome you this evening as we commemorate the 65th National Day and the 35th Liberation Day of my beloved country,” he said, describing these milestones as symbols of Kuwait’s founding spirit and the remarkable resilience of its people. His voice reflected not only diplomatic courtesy but also genuine affection for his homeland.
The presence of the Guest of Honor, Honorable Dr. Rajesh Ravindra Gawande (IFS: 2009), Secretary of Protocol, FDI, Diaspora Affairs and International Outreach, and Chief of Protocol for the Government of Maharashtra, added special significance to the celebration. His attendance underscored the strength of ties between India and Kuwait, ties rooted not just in policy, but in people.
His Excellency expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Government of India, the authorities of Maharashtra, and the city of Mumbai for their continued cooperation and hospitality. On a more personal note, he reflected on his three years serving in Mumbai. He spoke warmly of the city’s extraordinary energy, diversity, and entrepreneurial spirit. Mumbai, he said, is more than India’s financial capital, it is a symbol of ambition and opportunity, a city that never stops dreaming. Serving here has been a privilege he holds close to his heart.
The relationship between Kuwait and India, he reminded the audience, did not begin in recent decades. It stretches back centuries, built across the waters of the Arabian Sea through trade, cultural exchange, and human connections. Today, India remains one of Kuwait’s most valued and strategic partners. The Indian community in Kuwait, over a million strong, forms an essential part of the nation’s social and economic fabric. Their contributions, professionalism, and dedication continue to support Kuwait’s growth and development.
Looking ahead, His Excellency spoke about Kuwait Vision 2035, “New Kuwait,” an ambitious national transformation plan designed to diversify the economy and build a sustainable, knowledge-based future. He described it not as a distant dream, but as a transformation already underway. From modern infrastructure and digital innovation to renewable energy and world-class healthcare, Kuwait is laying the foundations for long-term prosperity.
Importantly, he emphasized that Indian expertise has a significant role to play in this journey. Whether in fintech, healthcare technology, renewable energy, or sustainable infrastructure, Indian companies and professionals are well positioned to contribute. He warmly invited Indian partners to participate in this evolving chapter of Kuwait’s story, one built on shared growth and mutual benefit. When Dr. Rajesh Ravindra Gawande addressed the gathering, his words reflected both admiration and strategic clarity. On behalf of the Government and people of Maharashtra, he extended warm congratulations and sincere good wishes to Kuwait’s leadership and citizens.
He highlighted that the 1.07 million-strong Indian community in Kuwait is far more than a demographic statistic. They are, as he beautifully described, a living bridge of friendship. Their professionalism, respect for Kuwaiti laws and culture, and dedication across sectors have earned the goodwill of the Kuwaiti people. He also expressed gratitude for Kuwait’s compassionate care for Indian citizens, describing it as a reflection of the depth and maturity of bilateral ties.
Dr. Gawande noted that civilizational links between India and Kuwait predate modern nation-states. Trade routes across the Arabian Sea carried not just goods but ideas, traditions, and aspirations. Over time, these exchanges have evolved into a robust partnership encompassing energy security, defense cooperation, trade, food security, and investment.
For Maharashtra in particular, the relationship holds strategic importance. Mumbai, as India’s commercial nerve center, has historically served as a maritime gateway to the Gulf region. He outlined areas of promising collaboration, energy and infrastructure development, investment partnerships with institutions like the Kuwait Investment Authority, enhanced port connectivity, food security initiatives, fintech innovation, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and clean energy transitions including solar power and green hydrogen.
Both leaders acknowledged that the world is changing rapidly. Technological disruption, climate challenges, and shifting global dynamics demand stronger, more resilient partnerships. In such times, relationships built on trust and shared values become even more meaningful. India and Kuwait, they affirmed, are well positioned to deepen their engagement into a forward-looking strategic partnership for the 21st century.
The evening concluded with a ceremonial cake-cutting and group photographs of the Consulate staff, a simple yet heartfelt moment symbolizing unity and celebration. As guests mingled, exchanged greetings, and captured memories, the spirit of the occasion was unmistakable. It was not just a celebration of Kuwait’s National and Liberation Days. It was a celebration of friendship, of two nations connected by history, strengthened by cooperation, and inspired by a shared vision of peace, progress, and prosperity.
