Jaishankar holds talks with Qatar PM, discusses trade, energy and West Asia

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday met Qatar's Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani in Doha during the first leg of his six-nation tour.

The two leaders reviewed the full spectrum of India-Qatar relations, discussed regional developments and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries.

Focus on trade, energy and strategic partnership

After the meeting, Jaishankar said the discussions covered key areas of bilateral cooperation, including energy, trade, investments, connectivity, security and people-to-people ties. He also thanked the Qatari leadership for ensuring the safety and well-being of the Indian community living in the Gulf nation.

"We reviewed various facets of our bilateral cooperation especially energy, trade, investments, connectivity, security and people to people ties. Explored new opportunities for deepening our Strategic Partnership. Appreciate his sharing of assessments on the West Asia conflict and its impact," Jaishankar said in a post on X.

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Talks on regional developments

According to Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the two sides discussed ways to further expand bilateral cooperation, with a particular focus on the economic sector. They also exchanged views on the evolving situation in West Asia, its impact on the global economy and energy markets, and several other issues of mutual interest.

Both leaders underlined the importance of resolving disputes and conflicts through dialogue and diplomatic means to strengthen regional and international peace and stability.

India and Qatar agreed to continue strengthening cooperation on priority areas by activating joint working mechanisms and bilateral committees. The discussions reflected both countries' commitment to expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.

Jaishankar's six-nation tour

Jaishankar is on a six-nation visit from July 5 to 15, covering Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, the US and Belgium. During the Gulf leg of the tour, from July 5 to 10, he is scheduled to hold meetings with senior leaders and foreign ministers to deepen bilateral ties and exchange views on regional and global developments.

After completing the Gulf visit, Jaishankar will travel to New York on July 13 to launch India's campaign for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2028-29 term.