India, Qatar Elevate Ties to ‘Strategic Partnership’ as Emir Meets PM Modi

New Delhi: India and Qatar have officially elevated their bilateral ties to a "Strategic Partnership" following high-level discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, in New Delhi on Tuesday.

The two leaders held wide-ranging talks at Hyderabad House, focusing on strengthening trade, investment, technology, energy security, food security, culture, and people-to-people ties. The discussions also explored the possibility of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and an ambitious goal to double bilateral trade to $28 billion within the next five years.

Strengthening Economic and Energy Cooperation

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) highlighted that energy security was a key agenda item, with both sides seeking to broaden cooperation in the sector. India, one of Qatar's largest LNG importers, is keen to deepen its long-term energy collaboration with the Gulf nation.

In the financial sector, India and Qatar signed an agreement to prevent double taxation and fiscal evasion concerning income taxes. The move is expected to facilitate greater investment flows and enhance business cooperation.

Beyond economic ties, the leaders exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual interest, underscoring their commitment to working closely on international issues.

Diplomatic and Symbolic Gestures

In a significant diplomatic gesture, Prime Minister Modi personally received the Emir of Qatar at the airport upon his arrival on Monday evening, breaking protocol to extend a warm welcome. The visit marks a continued strengthening of ties following PM Modi’s visit to Qatar in February 2024.

Ahead of their formal discussions, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani was accorded a ceremonial guard of honor at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where he was welcomed by President Droupadi Murmu. The Qatari leader is accompanied by a high-level delegation, including senior officials, ministers, and business leaders, reflecting the importance of the visit.

Strategic Vision for the Future

Following the talks, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized the significance of the new strategic partnership. "PM @narendramodi & HH Sheikh @TamimbinHamad Al-Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, held wide-ranging talks at Hyderabad House today. Both leaders decided to elevate India-Qatar relations to a Strategic Partnership, with a focus on trade, energy, investments, innovation, technology, food security, culture & people-to-people ties," he posted on X.

With this landmark agreement, India and Qatar are set to deepen their engagement across multiple sectors, reinforcing their shared vision for a stronger and more dynamic bilateral relationship.