Why PM Modi Went Out of Way to Welcome ‘Brother’ Emir of Qatar at Airport

In a sign of the increasing closeness between India and Qatar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi went out of his way to personally receive the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, at the airport. This is an unusual step that speaks volumes of the significance of the relationship between the two countries.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

India and Qatar have strong relations in various sectors including:

• Energy Cooperation: Qatar is a significant supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to India and is crucial to India’s energy security.
• Trade and Investments: The two nations have considerable trade, with both further exploring economic cooperation.
• Diaspora Relations: The sizable Indian expatriate population in Qatar plays a major role in the Gulf country’s economy and reinforces cultural ties.

The Personal Bond

The personal invitation extended to the Emir by PM Modi demonstrates personal bond and mutual respect between the two. The action follows India’s general diplomatic agenda of nurturing excellent bilateral relationships with pivotal global friends.

Diplomatic Significance

It is a rare instance of breaking protocol for state visits, reserved for moments of unusual diplomatic significance. This welcome is an indication of India’s desire to increase cooperation with Qatar in defense, technology, and infrastructure.

Conclusion

The hospitality at the airport is a precursor to fruitful exchanges between India and Qatar, geared towards strengthening cooperation and tackling common challenges. Expect more information on the fruits of this important visit.