India and Kuwait continue to enjoy traditional friendly relations. Geographical proximity, historical trade links, cultural affinities and presence of a large number of Indian expatriates in Kuwait have all continued to sustain and nurture the longstanding relationship over the years. India was a natural trading partner and a destination for higher learning. Until 1961, the Indian rupee was legal tender in Kuwait.

India and Kuwait enjoy a cordial relationship entrenched in history and common values such as democratic political system and respect for the UN Charter. The brutal invasion of Kuwait by Iraq in 1990, its subsequent liberation and India's support in reconstruction have brought the two countries much closer.

On the political front, India has been focussing on the Kuwaiti PoWs' cause at international fora. In addition, Kuwait welcomes India's principled support for Kuwait's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. Kuwait looks towards the Government of India for its continuing support for the cause of the release of the prisoners of war.

Commercially, India and Kuwait have worked together to extend and boost their traditional trade partnership to encompass many new areas of cooperation such as science and technology.

The presence of a huge Indian workforce in Kuwait has ensured close cultural interaction and bond between the two countries.