Monday, April 17 2006 14:28 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Kuwait: The condition of Indian workers in Kuwait and joint investments by the two nations would figure during talks Minister of State for External Affairs E Ahamed will have with Kuwaiti officials during his visit to the country.

Ahamed, who arrived in Kuwait on a two-day visit yesterday, is expected to deliver a message from President A P J Abdul Kalam to the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, inviting him to visit India.

Ahamed told reporters yesterday that he would hold talks with Kuwaiti officials on the condition of Indian workers in Kuwait. Some half a million Indians work in Kuwait.

The two countries would also discuss joint investments.

"India wants to be a direct partner for Kuwait," he was quoted by the Kuwait news agency as saying.

Officials from both countries would also sign an agreement for the avoidance of double taxation.

The agreement will stimulate the flow of investment, technology and services from India to Kuwait and vice versa. It will also facilitate mutual economic cooperation.