Centuries-Old Bond Highlighted During Amir’s Visit to India
India and Qatar’s long-standing relationship took center stage as President Droupadi Murmu welcomed Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani with a state banquet at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The event, attended by top diplomats and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, underscored the historical and cultural links between the two nations—right down to their shared love for biryani and kadak chai.
A Diplomatic Welcome with Cultural Overtones
President Murmu, addressing the distinguished gathering, emphasized that India-Qatar ties extend far beyond economics and politics. They are deeply rooted in centuries of shared traditions.
“Our centuries-old ties are also reflected in the art, music, and food that our people prefer—whether it is biryani or kadak chai,” she said. The comment, lighthearted yet meaningful, resonated well with the audience, highlighting the everyday connections between the citizens of both nations.
The banquet, held in the grandeur of Rashtrapati Bhavan, showcased a blend of Indian hospitality and international diplomacy. The event marked an important moment in India-Qatar relations, emphasizing not just trade and investments but also people-to-people connections.
Strengthening Economic Partnerships
While cultural camaraderie dominated the evening, discussions during Amir Al Thani’s visit also revolved around strengthening economic partnerships.
- Trade between India and Qatar has been steadily rising, with Qatar being a key supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to India.
- Indian companies have a growing presence in Qatar, spanning industries such as construction, IT, and healthcare.
- The two nations are looking to boost collaboration in renewable energy, with India’s push for green hydrogen aligning with Qatar’s diversification plans.
Beyond energy and trade, the leaders also explored opportunities for enhanced cooperation in sports, given Qatar’s global sporting footprint following its hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
A Community Connection Beyond Borders
The bond between India and Qatar is also reflected in their people. Over 800,000 Indians live and work in Qatar, contributing significantly to the Gulf nation’s economy. Their presence forms a vital bridge, strengthening the bilateral relationship through business, education, and culture.
One senior diplomat noted, “The Indian community in Qatar plays a major role in fostering ties. From small businesses to high-skilled professionals, they are the backbone of many industries.”
With this visit, both nations reaffirmed their commitment to deepening their engagement, ensuring that their partnership goes beyond formal agreements to something more enduring—shared experiences, mutual respect, and even a common love for food.