On February 17-18, 2025, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of Qatar, undertook a momentous state visit to India, marking his second official visit to the country within the past decade. This visit highlighted the enduring friendship and strategic partnership between the two nations.
Upon his arrival, HH the Amir was warmly received by Indian President Smt Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at the Forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhawan. A ceremonial welcome was organized, including a banquet hosted by the President for the Amir and his accompanying delegation, which included several high-ranking ministers and business leaders.
At Hyderabad House, Prime Minister Modi and HH Sheikh Tamim engaged in bilateral talks aimed at enhancing the multifaceted relationship between their nations. They reflected on the historic trade linkages and deep ties between their people, expressing aspirations to expand cooperation across various sectors. Notably, the leaders underscored the signing of the "Agreement on the Establishment of Bilateral Strategic Partnership,” which will facilitate regular collaborations and structured cooperation on political, security, trade, and cultural fronts.
Among the key topics of discussion was the need to deepen trade relationships, with the two sides aiming to explore and address market access challenges and diversifying trade. The elevated Joint Working Group on Trade and Commerce will now operate as the Joint Commission, tasked with comprehensive monitoring and enhancing bilateral economic ties.
Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohamed al-Thani, chairman of the Qatar Chamber, emphasized the significant growth of bilateral trade, noting it exceeded QR43.3 billion over 11 months last year. He pointed out India as one of Qatar's foremost trading partners, highlighting the importance of Qatari natural gas exports to India and the substantial bilateral trade agreements, including Qatar's commitment to investing USD 10 billion in India's economy.
The two leaders also discussed revitalizing their energy partnership, with Qatar being a key supplier of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) to India. Noteworthy is the 20-year LNG Sale and Purchase Agreement concluded recently, which will signify the continued strength of energy commerce between the two. This energy cooperation has been pivotal, with Qatar providing around 45% of India’s LNG imports.
Qatar and India have historically shared strong diplomatic and cultural bonds, dating back centuries. Indian expatriates represent the largest foreign community within Qatar, and their contributions to Qatari society were acknowledged by both leaders. Discussions also included plans for enhancing cultural exchanges, particularly through the proposed "India-Qatar Year of Culture, Friendship and Sports,” aimed at strengthening people-to-people ties.
Throughout the visit, the Amir and Prime Minister Modi reiterated their commitment to enhancing mutual cooperation across various sectors—including education, technology, and health care. The leaders expressed intent to facilitate academic exchanges and recognized the importance of shared best practices, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic.
They also touched upon security concerns, firmly condemning terrorism and committing to collaborative efforts against cross-border terrorism. Both countries expressed the necessity of enhancing law enforcement cooperation and intelligence sharing to combat rising threats.
Concluding the visit, HH Sheikh Tamim thanked PM Modi for the hospitality extended and reaffirmed Qatar's strong commitment to nurturing the deep-rooted relationship with India. Optimism abounds as both nations look forward to fostering their partnership, which not only aims to benefit their populations but also seeks to contribute positively to regional stability and development.
The visit culminates with high expectations for future collaboration, effectively paving the way for increased interactions and initiatives aimed at mutual growth. This renewed partnership marks yet another chapter in the enduring saga of India-Qatar relations, rooted deeply in history and poised for a promising future.