India and Qatar have decided to elevate their relationship to a Strategic Partnership with the goal of doubling bilateral trade by 2030. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani held discussions in New Delhi, emphasizing historical ties and economic cooperation.
Both countries signed an agreement to strengthen ties in various sectors, including trade, investment, security, energy, culture, education, and technology. They also agreed to expedite negotiations on a Bilateral Investment Treaty and welcomed the signing of a revised Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement.
Security and counterterrorism cooperation were key topics, with both leaders condemning terrorism and agreeing to collaborate on intelligence sharing, law enforcement, and cybersecurity. They also discussed preventing the use of cyberspace for terrorism and radicalization.
Economic and trade relations were highlighted as strong pillars of cooperation. India and Qatar agreed to enhance trade diversification and establish a Joint Commission on Trade and Commerce, which will monitor and expand economic ties. The first meeting of the Joint Business Council was held on February 13, 2025. Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund, Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), will open an office in India and has committed to investing $10 billion in various sectors, including infrastructure, technology, and food security.
Both sides emphasized expanding investment collaboration and agreed to explore a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. India welcomed Qatar’s role as a regional trade hub, while Qatar expressed interest in India’s rapid economic growth. They also discussed enhancing cooperation in financial institutions and investment opportunities.
The leaders supported greater collaboration in technology, startups, artificial intelligence, and pharmaceutical exports. They also agreed to strengthen food security cooperation and supply chain resilience. India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) will be operational in Qatar, with further expansion planned.
Energy cooperation will be enhanced, with joint efforts in energy infrastructure and trade. Additionally, India and Qatar will celebrate a Year of Culture, Friendship, and Sports in the near future.
PM Modi described his meeting with the Amir as highly productive and praised Qatar’s progress. He highlighted trade, energy, healthcare, and technology as key areas for further collaboration. The leaders also discussed regional security and emphasized diplomacy for conflict resolution.
Qatar’s Amir arrived in India on a two-day state visit, and both sides expressed satisfaction with the strong trajectory of their bilateral relationship.
