India and Kuwait sign MoU on Labour, Employment and Manpower Development

India and Kuwait has signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Labour, Employment and Manpower Development. The MoU was signed by Shri Vayalar Ravi, Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs with Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, Minister of Social Affairs and Labour of Kuwait during his visit to Kuwait from April 7-10, 2007.

The MoU provides for further strengthening of cooperation between the two countries in the area of labour employment and manpower development. It sets out various parameters governing the welfare of the workers in the private sector in line with the laws and regulations of the host country. It provides a mechanism for settlement of labour disputes. The MoU addresses issues relating to the protection and welfare of workers not covered under the Kuwaiti Labour Law. The document provides for the constitutions of a Joint Working Group by early next year to further study ways and means of improving the conditions of the workers, including skills upgradation and addressing issues of mutual concern. The Joint Working Group will meet in each other’s country alternately every six months.

Shri Ravi also had extensive discussions with Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah. The focus of discussions was on the presence of the large Indian community in Kuwait and related issues. Bilateral, regional and international developments of mutual interest were also touched upon during the discussions.

The distinguished leaders of the State of Kuwait appreciated the role and contribution of the Indian community in Kuwait towards Kuwait’s welfare and development. Mr. Ravi met with a wide cross-section of the Indian community, both collectively and individually. He discussed issues of concern affecting the welfare of the large Indian community. One of the major issues related to the situation in the region of Abbassiya, which was taken up with the leadership of Kuwait and with of Farwaniya. The Minister was assured that adequate steps would be taken to ensure the safety and security of the community in this area. The Indian community in Kuwait numbers around 550,000.

He also invited Sheith Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, Minister of Social Affairs and Labour of the State of Kuwait to visit India.

Source : Press Information Bureau

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