PM Modi Makes Rare Gesture, Welcomes Qatar Amir at Delhi Airport

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi made an exception on Monday as he personally received Qatar's Amir, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, at Indira Gandhi International Airport. This rare gesture highlights the strengthening diplomatic ties between India and Qatar.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar was also present at the airport during the Amir's arrival. Sheikh Tamim is on a two-day state visit to India from February 17 to 18, during which he is scheduled to meet with President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Modi, and other key Indian officials.

According to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the visit is expected to enhance the growing bilateral partnership between the two nations. The Amir is accompanied by a high-level delegation, including senior Qatari ministers, officials, and business leaders.

On Tuesday, the two leaders will engage in discussions on trade, investment, energy cooperation, and technology, with the signing of multiple Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to boost collaboration across various sectors.

This marks Sheikh Tamim’s second state visit to India, following his previous visit in March 2015. Over the years, India and Qatar have strengthened their ties in trade, energy, and cultural exchanges, with the Indian expatriate community forming the largest foreign workforce in Qatar.

The MEA acknowledged the contribution of the Indian diaspora in Qatar, stating that they play a crucial role in the nation’s progress and development.

The high-profile visit is expected to pave the way for deeper diplomatic and economic cooperation between India and Qatar, further cementing their strategic partnership.