Desk:Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani held talks aimed at elevating bilateral relations to the level of a strategic partnership. The discussions focused on trade, investment, technology, energy, and people-to-people connections. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that around 600 Indian citizens are currently imprisoned in Qatar, including an Indian Navy officer.
Hearing Continues for Indian Navy Officer
The Emir of Qatar arrived in India on a two-day state visit. MEA official Arun Kumar Chatterjee stated that the case of the Indian Navy officer is still pending in Qatar’s local courts. Prime Minister Modi appreciated Qatar’s efforts to ensure the welfare and protection of Indian citizens. However, it remains unclear whether the Indian Navy officer’s case was specifically discussed between PM Modi and the Emir.
Calls for Repatriation of Detained Indian Officials
Seven former Indian Navy officers, who were released last year after being detained in Qatar for 18 months, have urged the Indian government to facilitate the return of the last remaining detained officer, Commander Purnendu Tiwari. They emphasized the need for constructive discussions to ensure his reunion with his family.
600 Indians Imprisoned in Qatar, 85 Granted Clemency in 2024
According to MEA officials, around 600 Indian citizens are currently incarcerated in Qatari prisons. The Qatari government has granted clemency to 85 Indian prisoners so far in 2024. An agreement on the transfer of prisoners between India and Qatar has been reached, but it is awaiting Qatar’s final approval.
India and Qatar Move Towards a Free Trade Agreement
India and Qatar are exploring possibilities for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as part of ongoing negotiations between India and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). In the energy sector, Qatar remains a key supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to India. A new agreement between Qatar Energy and Petronet LNG Limited has been signed for the supply of 7.5 million metric tons of LNG for 20 years, starting in 2028.
Target to Double India-Qatar Trade in Five Years
Bilateral trade between India and Qatar currently stands at approximately $14 billion annually. Both nations have set a target to double this figure within the next five years. Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund, Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), has already invested $1.5 billion in India, with plans to increase this investment further.
New Agreements Strengthen India-Qatar Ties
India and Qatar signed a revised agreement to prevent double taxation and curb tax evasion on income. The agreement was exchanged by Qatar’s Prime Minister and India’s Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
Grand Welcome for Qatar’s Emir in India
Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, received a grand welcome in India. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi officially welcomed him at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Accompanying the Emir were Qatar’s Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, and key business delegates. President Murmu hosted a formal state dinner in his honor.