India and Kuwait conducted a comprehensive review of their bilateral relationship during the sixth round of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) held in Kuwait, the Ministry of External Affairs announced on Wednesday. Both nations agreed to enhance cooperation across various sectors, including political ties, trade, education, and cultural exchanges.

The FOC meeting was co-chaired by Aseem R Mahajan, Joint Secretary (Gulf), Ministry of External Affairs, and Sameeh Essa Johar Hayat, Assistant Foreign Minister for Asia Affairs of Kuwait. They reviewed the entire range of multifaceted ties and discussed ways to further strengthen and diversify their partnership.

In addition to bilateral discussions, Mahajan also met with Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, to explore new initiatives to deepen the India-Kuwait partnership. He also held talks with Tahani Rashid Al-Naseer, Assistant Foreign Minister (Legal), on finalizing ongoing negotiations for various agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs).

The meeting concluded with both sides expressing satisfaction with the traditionally strong bilateral ties and the progress made during the consultations. They agreed to hold the next FOC in New Delhi at a mutually convenient time, aiming to maintain the momentum in their bilateral relations and explore further areas of cooperation.

The FOC, convened timely following the previous session in May 2023, is expected to boost bilateral relations. Both sides were pleased with the outcomes and committed to continuing their collaborative efforts.

Source: Deccan Herald