The discussions covered the entire gamut of bilateral ties, including trade and investment, energy, technology and people-to-people ties, according to information shared by EAM Jaishankar. 

Both of them also exchanged views on regional and global issues, with Qatar’s Foreign Minister sharing his insights on the situation in Gaza, EAM Jaishankar added.

“Delighted to meet PM and FM of Qatar @MBA_AlThani_ in Doha this afternoon. Conveyed the greetings and warm wishes of PM @narendramodi to H.H. The Amir and him. 

Reviewed our bilateral relationship focusing on political, trade, investment, energy, technology, culture and people to people ties.

Exchanged views on regional and global issues. Appreciate his sharing insights on the Gaza situation.

Look forward to the further enhancement of India-Qatar relations and continued dialogue on issues of mutual interest,” EAM Jaishankar posted on X, formerly Twitter. 

EAM Jaishankar’s visit will enable both sides to review various aspects of bilateral relations including political, trade, investment, energy, security, cultural and people-to-people as well as the regional and international issues of mutual interest, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Saturday (June 29, 2024).

India and Qatar share historic and friendly relations which are marked by regular exchange of high-level visits. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had visited Qatar on February 14-15, 2024 and held discussions with Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

Trade and economic ties are among the key pillars of the bilateral relationship. 

India’s bilateral trade with Qatar in 2022-23 was US$ 18.77 billion. India’s export to Qatar during 2022-23 was US$ 1.96 billion and India’s import from Qatar was US$ 16.8 billion. Qatar is the largest supplier of LNG to India (10.74 MMT for US$ 8.32 billion in FY 2022-23), accounting for over 48% of India’s global LNG imports.

In a significant step towards bolstering economic ties, India and Qatar held the first meeting of the Joint Task Force on Investment (JTFI) in New Delhi on June 6, 2024. This marked a new chapter in the bilateral relations between the two nations, setting the stage for enhanced investment cooperation and mutual economic growth.

Defence cooperation is another important aspect of bilateral relations between India and Qatar.