Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Qatar Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani held discussions in New Delhi, agreeing to elevate India-Qatar relations to a strategic partnership. A key outcome of the meeting was an agreement for India to purchase more natural gas from Qatar.
In the presence of both leaders, Qatar’s Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani and Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar signed agreements, including one to avoid double taxation.
Earlier in the day, the Emir was accorded a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan. He also engaged with business leaders from both India and Qatar. After a meeting with the Indian President, the Emir is scheduled to depart at 8:30 PM.
The Emir arrived in India for a two-day visit, with his meeting with Modi taking place at Hyderabad House at noon. In a special diplomatic gesture, Modi personally received the Qatari leader at the airport.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also held discussions with Sheikh Tamim ahead of the official talks. The Emir’s visit to India comes at Modi’s invitation, accompanied by Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister. This marks the Emir’s second visit to India, with the previous one occurring in March 2015.
