Enjoying warm relations between them, India and Qatar are planning to set up task forces on investment and energy

In the course of his just concluded two-day visit to Qatar, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had not only called on the Gulf country’s Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, but also discussed in length all issues of bilateral, regional and international of mutual interest with the country’s Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammad bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani.

As per a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs, EAM Jaishankar, during his December 27-28 visit, handed over a personal message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani inviting him to visit India and thanking Qatar for taking care of the Indian community during Covid-19.

“The Amir accepted the invitation to visit India at an early date. He also recalled his telephone conversation with Prime Minister Modi during which both leaders had decided to set up task forces on investment and energy. Both sides are in the process of implementing this decision,” MEA said in the statement.

Qatar Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani appreciated the contribution of the Indian community in Qatar and recalled his visits to India. The EAM thanked him for his continued guidance on India-Qatar relations and appreciated his insights on global and regional developments.

EAM Jaishankar also met Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani and discussed strengthening bilateral economic and security cooperation.

With Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, EAM Jaishankar discussed ways to strengthen the multifaceted bilateral relationship in areas such as energy, trade, investment, food processing, healthcare, education, culture, defence and security.

“They agreed to maintain regular consultations and coordination on all issues of mutual interest at multilateral fora. EAM Jaishankar extended an invitation to Deputy PM and Foreign Minister of Qatar to visit India for the first Joint Commission Meeting in 2021,” the MEA said.

In the course of his visit, the EAM also interacted with the business leaders from Qatar, including the chairmen and board members of the Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Qatar Businessmen Association.

Jaishankar appreciated their commitment for business partnerships with India and briefed them about new opportunities flowing from Atmanirbhar Bharat.

The EAM also held a virtual interaction with the Indian community in Qatar. He appreciated the contribution of the community in meeting the Covid-19 challenge. EAM Jaishankar visited the Ahmed bin Ali FIFA Stadium that has been constructed by Indian company L&T along with Qatari partners Al Balagh group. He also visited the Qatar National Museum.