The North News
New Delhi, February 18
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, strengthened the long-standing bilateral ties between the two nations during a pivotal meeting at Hyderabad House. The leaders agreed to elevate their relationship to a “Strategic Partnership,” with a focus on enhancing cooperation in trade, energy, investment, innovation, technology, food security, culture, and people-to-people exchanges.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), MEA spokesperson Randhir stated, “Both leaders agreed to elevate India-Qatar relations to a Strategic Partnership, focusing on trade, energy, investments, innovation, technology, food security, culture, and people-to-people ties. They also discussed regional and global issues of mutual interest.”
Addressing a press conference, Secretary for Consular, Passport, and Visa Services, Arun Kumar Chatterjee, underscored the strong energy partnership between India and Qatar, noting that Qatar is a key energy supplier for India. In February 2024, Qatar Energy and Petronet LNG Limited signed a major agreement for the supply of 7.5 million metric tonnes of LNG per annum to India, starting in 2028, for the next 20 years. Both leaders also discussed opportunities for expanding investments and strengthening their energy cooperation.
Prime Minister Modi also expressed gratitude for Qatar’s support to the Indian community during the COVID-19 pandemic. The discussions culminated in the signing of two agreements and five Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at fostering closer bilateral ties across multiple sectors.
