Congress on Saturday took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kuwait, saying that the Prime Minister, who frequently goes abroad, ignored the people of violence-hit Manipur. Prime Minister Modi left for Kuwait on a two-day visit to strengthen ties in various fields including defense and trade. This is the first visit of an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait after 43 years.
Congress’s jibe: Ignoring Manipur
Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh wrote on social media platform ‘X’:
“The people of Manipur are still waiting for the Prime Minister. But Mr. Modi is refusing to fix any date. He again went on a foreign tour, this time to Kuwait.”
Congress says that the Prime Minister’s visit to Manipur can be helpful in restoring peace and normalcy there.
Manipur violence: situation till now
Violence broke out in Manipur on May 3, 2023, in protest against the demand of the majority Meitei community for granting them Scheduled Tribe status.
- So far, more than 220 people have lost their lives in this violence.
- The state remains unstable due to conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities.
Kuwait visit: Indian Prime Minister’s visit after 43 years
Before leaving for Kuwait tour, Prime Minister Modi said that this visit will prepare a blueprint for future partnership between India and Kuwait.
- Before Modi, the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had visited Kuwait in 1981.
Prime Minister’s statement
PM Modi said:
“Our historical relations with Kuwait are very special. We are not only strong partners in trade and energy, but we also have a common interest in peace, security, and stability in West Asia.”
The Prime Minister made this visit at the invitation of the Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Meshaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. He expressed excitement about meeting the Amir, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Kuwait.
Hoping to meet the Indian community
The Prime Minister said he was looking forward to meeting the Indian expatriates settled in Kuwait. He said:
“The Indian diaspora has played an important role in strengthening the bonds of friendship between the two countries.”