Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri is set to embark on a diplomatic mission to Kuwait as Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Special Envoy, following the death of Emir Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Sabah on Saturday.
The emir, who died at the age of 86, was admitted to the hospital late last month due to what the state news agency described at the time as an emergency health problem. The Indian government was quick to declare State Mourning across the country on December 17 as a mark of respect for the departed leader.
“The Government and people of India express their deepest condolences on the passing away of His Highness Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of Kuwait on 16 December 2023,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a press statement.
“Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Housing & Urban Affairs, will be visiting Kuwait as Prime Minister’s Special Envoy on 17 December to pay condolences on behalf of the Government and the people of India,” it added.
Crown Prince Sheikh Meshal al-Ahmad al-Sabah, 83, who has been Kuwait’s de facto ruler since 2021, when the frail emir handed over most his duties, was named as Sheikh Nawaf’s successor. Union minister Puri will deliver personal letters of condolences from the President and Prime Minister of India to the new Amir.
Over the demise of Sheikh Nawaf, the MEA said Kuwait has lost a visionary leader who took the country towards progress and prosperity. The ministry said that India and Kuwait maintained close and friendly relations under the leadership of the late Amir.
He was steadfast in guiding and strengthening bilateral engagements for the mutual benefit of the people of the two countries, MEA said. “The large Indian expatriate community in Kuwait will miss his presence and compassionate care. India stands united in mourning with the leadership and the people of Kuwait,” the ministry added.
(With agency inputs)
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