(Image source from: Twitter.com/narendramodi)
PM Modi thanks Qatar Emir for freeing 8 Navy officials:- During his visit to Doha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his gratitude towards Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar, for releasing eight former naval personnel who were previously imprisoned on charges of espionage. Modi also extended an invitation to the Qatar Emir to visit India, emphasizing India's commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation with Qatar. The Prime Minister highlighted the growing bond between the two nations and the positive outcome of their meeting, where they discussed ways to deepen cooperation across various sectors and explore opportunities in futuristic areas. Furthermore, Modi thanked the government and people of Qatar for their warm hospitality. Additionally, Modi had the opportunity to meet with Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, the father of the current ruler, known as the "Father Emir."
The Ministry of External Affairs stated that the recent discussions between the leaders of India and Qatar were significant for Qatar's progress in recent decades. At a briefing in Doha, foreign secretary Vinay Kwatra expressed their satisfaction with the release of eight Indians who had initially been sentenced to death but later had their sentences reduced to prison terms. During a banquet lunch hosted by the Emir in honor of the Prime Minister, the latter expressed gratitude for Qatar's care of the large Indian community residing there. The two leaders engaged in bilateral talks, with a focus on expanding their energy, trade, and investment partnership beyond a mere "buyer-seller" relationship. Qatar's leadership conveyed to Modi that the two nations share an unwavering bond characterized by trust and cooperation. It is noteworthy that Qatar is a major supplier of natural gas to India. The foreign secretary also highlighted the recent signing of a deal for the supply of 7.5 million metric tonnes per annum of liquefied natural gas from Qatar to India for a period of 20 years starting in 2028, emphasizing that this partnership has roots dating back to 1999.
The visit on Wednesday was deemed a triumph by foreign secretary Kwatra, despite the absence of any official agreements. He expressed confidence that the visit would serve as a strong foundation for enhanced relations and the strengthening of the broad partnership between the two countries. Kwatra emphasized that both nations are actively exploring opportunities to fortify their collaboration in green energy, supply chain development, and the application of technology and innovation in the energy sector.
