India and Qatar deepen strategic partnership as Indian External Affairs Minister meets Doha leadership
During his visit to Doha, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani to review the rapid evolution of the India–Qatar partnership. Their discussion spanned cooperation in energy, trade, investments, and mobility of people, alongside shared concerns over geopolitical shifts in West Asia.
Jaishankar highlighted India’s growing economic engagement with Qatar, one of New Delhi’s most dependable LNG suppliers. Both sides reaffirmed their intention to diversify bilateral trade, boost investment flows, and encourage private-sector participation. The leaders also exchanged insights on ongoing crises in the Middle East, including the Hamas–Israel conflict.
Both nations have reaffirmed their commitment to keeping channels open, enhancing connectivity, and strengthening a strategic partnership built on mutual trust, energy collaboration, and a shared vision for regional stability
Later, Jaishankar met Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, continuing a series of high-level engagements that have accelerated since earlier this year. Their conversation focused on expanding cooperation in energy security, maritime connectivity, and digital innovation.
These dialogues follow recent diplomatic outreach, including Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal’s visit to Qatar, where he co-chaired the India–Qatar Joint Commission meeting. The two sides have noted strong growth in trade, investment opportunities, and development financing.
India and Qatar have also been in close coordination on regional security. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had recently spoken with the Emir to express concern over Israeli strikes on Doha targeting Hamas leaders, describing it as a violation of Qatar’s sovereignty. India commended Qatar’s mediation efforts in the Gaza conflict, particularly in securing ceasefire arrangements and facilitating humanitarian negotiations.
For Qatar, India is not just a major energy client but also home to a large expatriate community contributing to its economy. For India, Qatar remains strategically important along shipping lanes connecting East Asia with Europe, positioning Doha as a vital economic and security partner.
