India, Qatar Forge Stronger Strategic Ties; Aim to Double Trade in 5 Years

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Qatar Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani held significant talks, focusing on trade, investment, and energy. Both leaders agreed to double bilateral trade over five years. A strategic partnership agreement was signed, strengthening the historic and economic connection between India and Qatar.

India and Qatar have embarked on a journey to strengthen their economic and diplomatic ties, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosting bilateral discussions with Qatar Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani. The talks, held in New Delhi, emphasized mutual interests in trade, investment, and energy, underscoring the historic and deep-rooted relations between the two nations.

The discussions culminated in a significant agreement aimed at elevating the bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership. Secretary Arun Kumar Chatterjee of the Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the goal of doubling bilateral trade over the next five years, setting a new target that aims to enhance the current annual trade volume of USD 14 billion.

Amir Sheikh Tamim's visit saw the accompaniment of a high-level Qatari delegation, including ministers and business leaders. This visit marks a vital step in expanding Qatar's investments in India, with the Qatar Investment Authority already having a substantial presence. Both countries explored further investment opportunities, as signified by a productive Joint Business Forum.

(With inputs from agencies.)