Qatari Amir’ Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani’s visit to India, after a decade, reaffirmed strong ties between the two nations.
Both countries recognize each other’s significance regionally and globally, with Qatar seeing India as a balanced global power and India viewing Qatar as a key Gulf partner.
India is crucial to Qatar’s economy, with Indian expatriates playing a key role.
Qatar supplies 45% of India’s LNG needs, contributing to the $15 billion bilateral trade.
Qatar maintains diverse ties, hosting a U.S. military base while also engaging with groups like Hamas and the Taliban.
India has relied on Qatar’s leadership regarding Afghanistan.
Qatar’s decision to pardon eight Indian naval personnel, accused of espionage, further strengthened relations.
Both countries upgraded their ties to a strategic partnership, with plans to double trade by 2030 and a $10 billion Qatari investment in India’s infrastructure.
The visit comes amid tensions over the Israel-Gaza conflict.
While the joint statement acknowledged differing positions, it did not elaborate on the specifics, reflecting the sensitivity of the issue.
India and Qatar committed to deepening bilateral ties despite geopolitical challenges, aiming for a stronger partnership moving forward.
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