Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been awarded Kuwait's prestigious "Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer," marking his 20th international accolade from a foreign nation. The honor, typically reserved for heads of state and foreign royalty, underscores the growing strength of India-Kuwait relations.
A Dedication to Friendship
Expressing his gratitude, Prime Minstersaid, “I am deeply honored to get the "Mubarak Al-Kabeer Award" from His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal AlAhmad AlJaber Al-Sabah. I dedicate this award to the people of India and to the enduring friendship between India and Kuwait.”
The award, conferred during Modi's two-day visit to the Gulf kingdom, highlights Kuwait's recognition of India's growing global stature and the personal diplomacy of its leader. Notable previous recipients of this honor include former U.S. President Bill Clinton and King Charles of the United Kingdom.
Strengthening Defence and Cooperation
During the visit, India and Kuwait signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on defense cooperation. This agreement facilitates the exchange of defense personnel, joint military exercises, and the supply of defense equipment. The MoU reflects the deepening strategic ties between the two nations, addressing mutual security and regional stability concerns. hat is the Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer?
The Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer is Kuwait's highest honor, conferred by the Kuwaiti government on heads of state, sovereigns of foreign countries, and members of foreign royal families. This prestigious award is given as a gesture of friendship and goodwill.
Since its establishment in 1974, the honor has been awarded to numerous prominent international figures. Notable recipients include Queen Elizabeth II of England, former U.S. Presidents George Bush and Bill Clinton, King Salman Saudi Arabia, and former French Prez Nicolas Sarkozy, among others.
History Behind the Award
The award is named after Mubarak Al Sabah, also known as Mubarak Al-Kabeer or Mubarak the Great, who ruled Kuwait from 1896 to 1915. His reign marked a pivotal moment in Kuwait's history, as he secured greater autonomy from the Ottoman Empire. In 1899, Mubarak signed an agreement with Britain for protection against the Ottomans, effectively making Kuwait a British protectorate. Mubarak's leadership played a crucial role in shaping the modern state of Kuwait.
The Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer remains a symbol of Kuwait’s respect and admiration for global leaders and their contributions to fostering strong international relations.
PM Modi also held discussions with Kuwait's Crown Prince, Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, to explore avenues for enhanced collaboration across trade, energy, and cultural sectors.
The visit reinforces India's commitment to strengthening partnerships with Gulf nations, furthering regional stability and cooperation.