Qatar has committed to investing $10 billion in India across multiple sectors, strengthening economic ties between the two nations. The announcement came after a high-level meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani during the Emir’s two-day visit to New Delhi.
Following the discussions, PM Modi described the meeting as "very productive" and emphasized trade as a key focus. "We want to increase and diversify India-Qatar trade linkages," Modi stated in a post on X. This visit marks the first by a Qatari Emir to India in a decade.
According to a joint statement, Qatar’s investment will span infrastructure, technology, manufacturing, food security, logistics, hospitality, and other sectors. Additionally, both countries aim to double their annual trade to $28 billion within the next five years and are exploring the possibility of a free trade agreement.
Bilateral trade between India and Qatar stood at $18.77 billion in the fiscal year ending March 2023, with liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports constituting a significant portion. Qatar accounted for over 48% of India's LNG imports that year. The two nations have also agreed to enhance energy cooperation, including mutual investments in energy infrastructure and exploring the settlement of bilateral trade in their respective currencies.
This strengthened partnership signals a new chapter in India-Qatar relations, with a focus on expanding economic collaboration and fostering long-term investments.