Why it matters:
The visit underscores India’s deepening ties with Persian Gulf nations and highlights Qatar’s strategic importance in energy and economic cooperation. It also comes ahead of the Emir’s planned trip to Tehran, signaling Qatar’s diplomatic engagement in regional affairs.
What they're saying:
According to The Times of India, the two nations will explore ways to strengthen cooperation in various sectors, including trade, investment, and energy.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on X (formerly Twitter): "I went to the airport to welcome my brother, the Emir of Qatar."
Key points:
- This is Sheikh Tamim’s first visit to India in nine years.
- In a rare diplomatic move, Modi personally received the Emir at the airport, before their meeting at Hyderabad House in New Delhi, on February 18.
- The leaders of India and Qatar will discuss trade, investment, energy, people-to-people ties, and also regional and global issues, including the situation in Gaza.
Go deeper:
India and Qatar maintain strong economic and energy ties, with Qatar being a major supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to India.
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