India's External Affairs Minister, Dr. S Jaishankar, undertook a significant visit to Doha this week, engaging in a series of high-level discussions aimed at reinforcing the robust strategic partnership between India and Qatar. The diplomatic mission focused on critical areas of mutual interest, including trade, energy security, and regional stability in West Asia.
High-Level Diplomatic Engagements in Doha
During his stay, Minister Jaishankar held pivotal talks with Qatar's Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani. The leaders conducted a comprehensive review of the multi-faceted relationship between their nations. Sharing details on the social media platform X, Jaishankar stated they addressed key partnership aspects like energy, trade, investment, and people-to-people connections.
He wrote, "Pleased to meet Qatar's Prime Minister & Foreign Minister @MBA_AlThani_ in Doha. Reviewed key aspects of our Strategic Partnership including energy, trade, investment and people to people connect. Appreciate the exchange of views on Middle East/West Asia, regional and global developments."
In a major diplomatic engagement, Jaishankar also met with the Amir of Qatar, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. This meeting provided an opportunity for the leadership to explore new avenues for expanding cooperation and further cementing the strong bilateral ties that bind the two countries.
Sustained Momentum in Bilateral Relations
This visit is part of a pattern of sustained high-level engagement between India and Qatar. In early October, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal visited Qatar, where he co-chaired a meeting of the India-Qatar Joint Commission on Economic and Commercial Co-operation alongside his Qatari counterpart, Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani.
Minister Goyal's trip included a meeting with the CEO of Qatar Development Bank (QDB), Abdulrahman Hesham Al-Sowaidi, where he highlighted India's enthusiasm for the growing interest from Qatari businesses in the opportunities presented by India's rapidly expanding economy.
Foundation Set by Leadership Dialogue
The current diplomatic momentum was initiated in September with a direct conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani. Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the continuous progress in the India-Qatar Strategic Partnership, noting consistent growth in trade, investment, and security cooperation.
During this call, PM Modi addressed the regional crisis, condemning strikes in Doha that targeted Hamas leaders and violated Qatar's sovereignty. He emphasized India's support for Qatar and its vital efforts to foster peace and stability in the region. Prime Minister Modi specifically acknowledged Qatar's crucial mediation in the Gaza conflict, including its relentless work to secure a ceasefire and facilitate the release of hostages.
In response, the Amir of Qatar thanked PM Modi for India's solidarity and support during a challenging period. The leaders concluded by agreeing to maintain close contact and continue their collaborative work to strengthen the long-standing friendship between India and Qatar.
