India and Qatar Forge New Tech Partnerships at Business Forum

India shifts its trade focus to AI, IoT, quantum computing, and semiconductors, as discussed at the India-Qatar Business Forum. Union Minister Piyush Goyal highlights the transition from traditional energy trade to new technologies, aiming for sustainability and economic cooperation with Qatar, underlining mutual trust and shared interests.

In a significant development, India is pivoting its trade focus from energy to the realms of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Quantum Computing, and semiconductors. Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal detailed this transition at the India-Qatar Business Forum, orchestrated by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).

Goyal noted, "We are now envisioning a future beyond traditional energy trade, delving into new-age technologies such as AI and IoT." He stressed that this shift will be anchored in sustainability, entrepreneurship, energy, and technology. Furthermore, India's burgeoning startup ecosystem stands poised as an alluring destination for Qatari investments.

Highlighting mutual trust, Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the long-standing respect and shared interests between India and Qatar, which has led to India becoming Qatar's third largest trading partner. The forum also spotlighted India's digital prowess and Qatar's forward-thinking digital agenda, underscoring collaborative opportunities.

(With inputs from agencies.)