Kuwait: India has thanked Emir of Kuwait for being a good host to about six lakh expatriates from the country in the oil-rich nation.
In a message to mark the 64th Independence Day here, Indian Ambassador to Kuwait Ajai Malhotra said India enjoys a long-standing friendship Kuwait.
"We are very grateful for the care and benevolence bestowed on our community by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah," he said in a statement.
Kuwait has about 6 lakh Indians, who play a vital component in friendship between the two countries, he said.
The Gulf nation is a significant partner in India's quest for energy security and supplies 10-11 percent of India's annual crude oil import requirements, Malhotra said.
Trade between the two countries is estimated to about USD 10.5 billion annually and even in non-oil trade terms, India has consistently been among Kuwait's top trading partners.
PTI
First Published: Monday, August 16, 2010, 18:08