- Jaishankar’s visit signals India’s vision of building long-term, sustainable ties in West Asia
- For Qatar, India represents both a strategic partner and a fast-growing economic power
- Together, they are shaping a multi-dimensional partnership that blends energy, security, trade, and technology in a rapidly changing geopolitical environment
External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar’s November 2025 visit to Qatar marks a pivotal moment in the expanding India–Qatar relationship. The trip follows the official elevation of the bilateral partnership to a Strategic Partnership earlier in the year, solidified during the Qatari Amir’s visit to New Delhi. With both nations navigating a rapidly evolving West Asian landscape, the emphasis is now on deepening economic integration, energy cooperation, technology exchange, and security collaboration.
India’s dependence on Qatar for liquefied natural gas (LNG) remains a cornerstone of the relationship. Qatar supplies more than 40% of India’s LNG imports, making reliability in energy flows a priority for both sides.
As global energy markets face volatility, discussions during the visit focused on long-term energy contracts, diversification into renewables, and joint innovation in hydrogen and green technologies. Both governments view energy as not just a trade commodity but a foundation for broader economic cooperation.
The economic dimension of the partnership received equal attention. Bilateral trade, valued at around $14 billion in 2023–24, is set to double by 2030
Negotiations around a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) are underway, aimed at reducing trade barriers, promoting joint ventures, and enabling smoother investment flows. Recently signed agreements between Investments Qatar and Invest India are expected to accelerate capital movement and create new opportunities for business partnerships.
Technology and innovation have emerged as new pillars of cooperation. Qatar is positioning itself as a regional tech hub, and India’s thriving start-up ecosystem offers fertile ground for collaboration. During the visit, both sides agreed to expand engagement in fintech, digital governance, artificial intelligence, and education technology. Indian start-ups will now gain more access to Qatari innovation forums and incubators, strengthening people-to-people and knowledge ties.
Security cooperation also featured prominently. Both nations share an interest in ensuring stability in West Asia and addressing threats such as extremism, cyberattacks, drug trafficking, and money laundering. Enhanced intelligence sharing and joint initiatives on regional peace were reaffirmed.
The large Indian diaspora in Qatar—over 750,000 people—remains a bridge connecting the two nations. Cultural exchanges, skill-building initiatives, and education partnerships were highlighted as essential to making the relationship future-ready.
