Qatar’s Amir Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani Visits India

February 19, 2025

On February 18, 2025, Amir Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani of Qatar visited India for a two-day state visit. This is the Amir’s first visit to India in 9 years.

Historical Context of India-Qatar Relations

India and Qatar share deep-rooted historical ties. The relationship has evolved in recent years, particularly in trade and investment. Indian expatriates form the largest foreign community in Qatar, contributing positively to its development. This demographic factor adds a layer of cultural and economic interdependence between the two nations.

Key Areas of Discussion

During the visit, PM Modi and the Amir aimed to cement their relationship by focusing on mutual interests. The discussions also covered regional and global issues, underlining the importance of collaboration on a broader scale.

India-Qatar Strategic Partnership

India and Qatar have decided to strengthen their relationship by upgrading it to a strategic partnership.
The agreement focuses on trade, energy, investments, innovation, technology, food security, culture, and people-to-people ties.
Qatar is the fifth Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country to sign a strategic partnership with India (after UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Kuwait).

Double Taxation Agreement

A revised agreement was signed to avoid double taxation and prevent tax evasion.
This agreement is an important step towards a potential Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and Qatar.

Other Discussions

$10 Billion Investment: Qatar will invest $10 billion in India, and its investment authority will open an office in India.
Both nations discussed signing Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to boost trade
The countries agreed to double their trade (currently $14 billion) in the next 5 years.
Both leaders stressed dialogue and diplomacy for resolving conflicts. India reaffirmed its support for a two-state solution.

Future Cooperation Plans

Joint Ministerial Commissions: Foreign and Commerce Ministers from both sides will meet regularly.
India-Qatar Free Trade Agreement (FTA): Both countries will explore an FTA at the bilateral level.
Energy Partnership: Both nations will increase trade and mutual investments in energy.
Indian e-Visa for Qatari Nationals: The e-Visa facility will be extended for Qatari citizens.
UPI in Qatar: India’s UPI (Unified Payments Interface) will become operational in Qatar.
Cultural Collaboration: India and Qatar will celebrate a “Year of Culture and Friendship” in the future.

Counter-Terrorism Cooperation

Both countries strongly condemned terrorism, including cross-border terrorism. They agreed to work together in:

- Sharing intelligence and best practices.
- Strengthening cooperation in law enforcement, cybercrime, drug trafficking, and money laundering.
- Cybersecurity measures to prevent terrorism and radicalization.

Future Prospects

The visit is seen as a stepping stone toward a more extensive partnership. Both nations are looking to enhance cooperation in multiple domains. The discussions are expected to lead to more structured collaborations in technology and energy sectors, which are vital for both economies.

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