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Bilateral Pacts Strengthen Nepal-Qatar Relations

The two countries sealed the deals, two agreements and six memorandums of understanding…reports Asian Lite News

The governments of Nepal and Qatar on Wednesday reached agreements on bilateral cooperation in various sectors.

The two countries sealed the deals, two agreements and six memorandums of understanding, after an hour-long meeting between the delegations led by Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Nepali Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, according to Amrit Bahadur Rai, spokesperson for Nepal’s Foreign Ministry.

Media, business, culture and arts, education, scientific research and youth and sports are the areas on which the two countries agreed to focus their cooperation, Xinhua news agency reported.

The emir arrived in Kathmandu on Tuesday for a two-day state visit.

ALSO READ: Nepal Kalinga Literary Festival Strengthens Regional Ties

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Qatar reviews achievements of Emiratisation in UAE

The two sides discussed ways to enhance bilateral relations between the two countries in the fields of human resources development and labour..reports Asian Lite News

Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation, received Dr. Ali bin Samikh Al Marri, Minister of Labour of Qatar, who headed a delegation from the Qatari Ministry of Labour on a visit to the UAE.

During a meeting, the two sides discussed ways to enhance bilateral relations between the two countries in the fields of human resources development and labour.

The Qatari delegation was briefed on best practices implemented in the UAE labour market, in the presence of Khalil Al Khoori, Undersecretary for Human Resources Affairs at the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE); Ayesha Belharfia, the Ministry’s Undersecretary for Emiratisation Affairs; Ghannam Al Mazrouei, Secretary General of the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council; Sheikha Najwa Al Thani, Assistant Undersecretary for Migrant Labour Affairs at the Qatari Ministry of Labour, and officials from both ministries.

The Qatari delegation reviewed the various initiatives of the Nafis programme, as well as the range of legislation and decisions to support Emiratisation efforts in the private sector, and the unprecedented record results of enhancing Emirati professionals’ competitiveness in the labour market.

The meeting also highlighted processes and practices of UAE labour market monitoring, raising awareness, and inspection, in addition to the social protection system and the programme for protecting workers’ entitlements in the private sector.

The delegation also examined the procedures used for settling labour disputes in the UAE, in addition to the latest results of the continuous efforts to upgrade and develop the UAE labour market’s legislative ecosystem and elevate its attractiveness to both international talent and Emirati professionals.

ALSO READ: India requests Saudi to increase Haj quota

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UAE, Iraq, Türkiye, Qatar ink deal on ‘Development Road Project’

The MoU focuses on collaboration for the strategic ‘Development Road’ project…reports Asian Lite News

The United Arab Emirates, Iraq, Qatar and Türkiye, have signed a quadrilateral Memorandum of Understanding for cooperation on the Development Road project. Iraq’s PM Muhammed S. Al-Sudani and President of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdoğan witnessed the signing ceremony on Monday

“This MoU focuses on collaboration for the strategic ‘Development Road’ project. The event was attended by members of the four signatory countries,” according to a PM Media Office statement received by the Iraqi News Agency.

The MOU was signed by Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Iraq’s Minister of Transport, Razzaq Muhibis, Türkiye’s Abdulkadir Uraloğlu, and Qatar’s Minister of Transport, Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti.

“The outlines for the framework of implementing the Development Road project aim to stimulate economic growth and enhance regional and international cooperation through economic integration. It seeks to create a sustainable economy bridging East and West, increase international trade, facilitate movement and commerce, establish a new competitive transport route, and bolster regional economic prosperity,” added the PM Office statement.

ALSO READ: UAE, Oman solidify ever-strengthening strategic ties

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Israel to Send Delegation to Qatar for Gaza Ceasefire Negotiations

The meeting “will be held as part of the negotiations in Doha, and its purpose is to advance the efforts to return the hostages,” the office added…reports Asian Lite News

Israel is set to send a delegation to Qatar for negotiations on a Gaza ceasefire deal, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said in a statement.

The delegation, led by head of the Israeli Mossad intelligence agency, David Barnea, will depart for Qatar on Friday, his office said on Thursday.

The talks include head of the US Central Intelligence Agency William Burns, Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, and Egyptian Intelligence Minister Abbas Kamel, Xinhua news agency reported.

The meeting “will be held as part of the negotiations in Doha, and its purpose is to advance the efforts to return the hostages,” the office added.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is expected to arrive in Israel for talks with senior officials on Friday, said on Wednesday in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, that negotiations to secure an immediate truce in the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza were “getting closer” to a deal.

ALSO READ-US unveils draft UN resolution seeking Gaza ceasefire

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UAE, Qatar Stress Unified Approach in Gaza

The UAE Foreign Minister visited Doha, on a working visit, and met with Emir His Highness Sheikh Tamim and Qatari Prime Minister….reports Asian Lite News

Emir of Qatar His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani yesterday welcomed UAE Foreign Minister H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan in the presence of Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdurrahman bin Jassim Al Thani.

The UAE Top Diplomat conveyed the greetings of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his best wishes to the State of Qatar and its people for more prosperity and progress. His Highness Sheikh Tamim reciprocated the greetings.

During the meeting, which was held as part of the UAE Foreign Minister’s working visit to Doha, the fraternal relations and ways to support and develop bilateral cooperation were reviewed, in addition to discussing a number of regional and international issues of common interest.

H.H. Sheikh Abdullah affirmed the depth of the fraternal UAE-Qatar relations and the two countries’ continuous efforts to invest in all available opportunities to expand the paths of bilateral cooperation in a way that achieves their mutual interest and the higher good of their peoples.

Sheikh Abdullah also expressed his thanks and appreciation to the Emir of Qatar for the warm welcome, expressing his best wishes to Qatar and its people for more progress and prosperity.

Later, Sheikh Abdullah also met with Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdurrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, who is also the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar.

The two ministers also discussed the latest developments in the Middle East region, especially in the Gaza Strip.

They reviewed the efforts to reach a sustainable ceasefire, especially with the escalating humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip and the urgent need to intensify the regional and international efforts made to provide sufficient humanitarian assistance to the brotherly Palestinian people, in a way that would contribute to alleviating their suffering.

They touched on the outcomes of the recent ministerial meeting on the maritime corridor initiative aimed to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza and the importance of such initiatives in opening humanitarian corridors to transport aid at a sufficient and sustainable pace and without obstacles to civilians in the Gaza Strip.

Sheikh Abdullah pointed out during the meeting that the Middle East region is going through exceptional difficult circumstances and many challenges that, he stressed, necessitate the need to intensify cooperation and multilateral work at all levels to end extremism, tension and escalating violence in the region and reach a sustainable ceasefire.

The UAE FM added that a ceasefire, securing the safety of all civilians and bolstering the humanitarian response to the brotherly Palestinian people is an urgent priority.

“To ensure the success of these endeavours, a unified approach combining all available efforts is imperative,” Sheikh Abdullah stressed.

He also appreciated the continuous efforts made by Qatar to reach a ceasefire that would contribute to meeting the urgent humanitarian needs of civilians in Gaza. He reiterated the importance of finding a serious political horizon to resume negotiations with the aim of achieving comprehensive peace based on the two-state solution.

The Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar hosted an Iftar banquet in honour of Sheikh Abdullah and his accompanying delegation.

ALSO READ: UAE President, World Central Kitchen CEO discuss boosting Gaza aid

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Discover Qatar: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum, a must-visit destination for sports enthusiasts of all ages. Immerse yourself in Qatar’s rich sporting heritage, uncovering captivating exhibits and interactive displays that celebrate the nation’s athletic achievements on the global stage…reports Asian Lite News

A dazzling desert oasis in the heart of the Middle East, every corner of Qatar tells a story of the meeting of old and new. Nestled along the Arabian coastline, the country captivates visitors with its rich and diverse cultural landscape and stunning views across the Persian Gulf.

While thrill-seekers are drawn to the Inland Sea’s exhilarating adventures, The Pearl-Qatar invites with its pristine beaches for a luxurious escape. Whether your heart beats for avant-garde architecture, or the timeless charm of traditional districts, this country offers something for all kinds of travellers, promising unforgettable adventures in every season.

With an assorted array of experiences to suit every taste, here are neighbourhoods you simply cannot miss while exploring Qatar.

Dive into The Pearl-Qatar for a splash of glitz and glamour

Just north of the city centre, set amidst the coastal shores of the Arabian Gulf, is Qatar’s upscale island district – The Pearl. Indulge in the lavish lifestyle of The Pearl, where impressive yachts line the jetties and fine dining awaits at every turn. Named after its former pearl diving site, this Mediterranean-inspired area boasts fancy villas, elite hotels, and designer boutiques. The island is home to modern dining spots like the Nozomi which serves up Japanese cuisine or the Toro Toro which offers a full Latin experience. The famous Medina Centrale particularly stands out for its Mediterranean charm and aura with its public plazas, colourful houses, and inviting cafés. Whether you seek luxury or simply wish to stroll along the canals and admire the picturesque surroundings, a visit to The Pearl is an absolute must.

Embrace Qatar’s history at Al Jasra

Step into history at Al Jasra, Doha’s significant centre that is steeped in tradition. Named after the Arabic word for “bridge,” this neighbourhood features iconic landmarks like the Old Well and the bustling Souq Waqif, Qatar’s largest marketplace. Dating back to the late 19th to early 20th centuries, this area used to be a gathering place where Bedouins and locals would trade a variety of goods including falcons and camels. Now, you can wander through its narrow passageways that are lined with stalls selling antiques, handicrafts, spices, artefacts and much more. Stroll further to the falcon souq where you can pose with a falcon perched on your arm or head to the camel pen to see these doe-eyed creatures.

Get your game on in Al Baaya

Experience the charm of Al Baaya (also known as Al Waab), a suburban haven just a stone’s throw away from Doha’s busy city centre. Popular among multi-generational families this neighbourhood boasts the expansive Aspire Park, home to the thrilling Jungle Zone indoor theme park and the iconic Aspire Lake. Dive into luxury at the prestigious Villagio Mall, offering upscale boutiques, a cinema, and a dreamy Italian-themed canal complete with gondolas. But the real gem of Al Baaya is the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum, a must-visit destination for sports enthusiasts of all ages. Immerse yourself in Qatar’s rich sporting heritage, uncovering captivating exhibits and interactive displays that celebrate the nation’s athletic achievements on the global stage.

Step into the future at Lusail

Palm trees swaying gently in the breeze and yachts bobbing in the turquoise water, streets lined with perfectly designed Lego block-like buildings, Lusail is a blend of innovation and sustainability. Lusail is often hyped as Qatar’s “City of the Future” and claims to be the most technologically advanced city in the region, if not the world. Whether it’s taking a break from the hustle and bustle and immersing oneself in Crescent Park’s eco-friendly beauty that is inspired by the serene Qatari desert or indulging in some upscale shopping at the Paris-inspired leisure hub – Place Vendôme or visiting Lusail Stadium that held the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ finale, it’s a city that pulsates with vibrancy.

Where sand meets the sea at Khor Al Adaid

Prepare to be enchanted by Khor Al Adaid, a breathtaking landscape where the desert meets the sea in a spectacle unlike any other. Here, the turquoise waters of the sea gracefully merge with the golden sands, forming an Inland Sea, which is as mesmerizing as it is extraordinary. As the day unfolds watch in awe as the beach transforms into a resort-like oasis with water gently lapping onto the desert shores. As evening approaches, witness the magic of the desert sunset, as the dunes take on a warm, golden hue that casts a spellbinding glow over the landscape. Amidst the towering dunes, one can encounter an abundant variety of fauna, ranging from desert foxes and antelopes to migratory birds like ospreys and pink flamingos, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

ALSO READ-Qatar Tourism Targets Core Markets at OTM Mumbai 2024

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NSA Sullivan, Qatar PM Discuss Gaza Hostage Release

The United States affirmed this dialogue in an official statement, indicating ongoing communication between Sullivan and Al Thani….reports Asian Lite News

White House National Security Adviser, Jake Sullivan, and Qatari Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, convened on Tuesday to explore prospects for a ceasefire in Gaza, coupled with the release of hostages.

The United States affirmed this dialogue in an official statement, indicating ongoing communication between Sullivan and Al Thani.

Meanwhile, senior Hamas leader Osama Hamaden has said that the outfit will release the remaining 134 hostages only when the permanent ceasefire is in place and Israelis completely withdraw from Gaza.

Hamadan in a statement in Beirut on Tuesday said that in the past two days the organisation had clearly presented this view before the Qatari and Egyptian mediators.

He said that Hamas had reaffirmed its position that a permanent ceasefire was possible only after a full pull out of the IDF from Gaza Strip and return of displaced Palestinian families to their homes.

The tough position taken by Hamas has almost derailed the US President Joe Biden’s optimism that a temporary six week ceasefire would be reached before March 10 – the commencement of the Holy month of Ramadan.

However, the US state secretary Antony Blinken is in continuous discussions with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed Al -Thani and the Egyptian mediator Major General Abbas Kalam. The US leader is also in communication with Israeli minister, Benny Gantz who is on a visit to the US.

Highly placed sources in the Israel defence ministry told IANS that if the Hamas backs out of truce talks then Israel will have to go for an all-out attack to release and rescue its hostages. It may be noted that Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has been restrained from an all-out ground invasion in Rafah border after an appeal from mediators, including the US ,Qatar and Egypt.

US Airdrops More Aid into Gaza

Amid the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, the US for the second time, airdropped humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, The New York Times reported.

US Air Force cargo planes, in a joint operation with the Jordanian Air Force dropped 36,800 ready-to-eat meals “to provide essential relief to civilians affected by the ongoing conflict,” according to US Central Command statement.

In a statement, US Central Command said that army troops trained in aerial delivery were part of the airdrop. The US forces further said that they were planning more such missions. However, the Pentagon said on Tuesday that the US did not intend to send its troops into Gaza to strengthen the aid distribution process.

While addressing a news conference, Pentagon spokesperson Major General Patrick Ryder said, “At this time, there are no plans to put U.S. forces on the ground in Gaza,” The New York Times reported.

The US’ operation on Tuesday comes days after the first round of airdrops on Saturday. US airdropped the first round of humanitarian aid into Gaza, two days after more than 100 Palestinians were killed as Israeli forces opened fire around a convoy of aid trucks in northern Gaza. Doctors at Gaza hospitals said the majority of casualties were from gunfire.

The Israeli military said the majority of the victims were trampled as they attempted to take control of the cargo. Israeli officials, however, admitted that troops had fired on some people who they said had threatened them, according to The New York Times report.

Following the convoy casualties in Gaza, US President Joe Biden said the US would find new ways to provide aid to Palestinians in desperate need due to Israel’s counter-offensive against Hamas, which began after the terrorist group’s attack on October 7.

On Sunday, US Vice President Kamala Harris called for an “immediate ceasefire” in Gaza, which she stressed must last for at least the next six weeks. Terming the conditions in Gaza as “inhumane,” Harris said that people in the region were “starving.”

Harris, who was in Alabama’s Selma, to commemorate the 59th anniversary of Bloody Sunday, said, “The threat of Hamas poses to the people of Israel must be eliminated. And given the immense scale of suffering in Gaza, there must be an immediate ceasefire for at least the next six weeks, which is what is currently on the table.”

The US Vice President noted that the ceasefire will allow the release of hostages and aid will enter Gaza. She stressed that Hamas needs to agree to that deal. (ANI)

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Qatar Reaffirms Commitment to Host Meetings on Afghanistan

Qatar stands among the few countries that have been key hosts of the most significant international meetings on Afghanistan since 2020…reports Asian Lite News

Qatar reaffirmed its commitment to host international meetings on Afghanistan issues, further affirming its support for the Afghan people, according to Khaama Press.

In its recent statement, Juhara Abdulaziz Al-Suwaidi, Deputy Permanent Representative of Qatar to Geneva, underscored the importance of continuing to host meetings on Afghanistan at the fifty-fifth session of the UN Human Rights Council.

Notably, Qatar stands among the few countries that have been key hosts of the most significant international meetings on Afghanistan since 2020, contributing to notable developments in the country.

The recent Doha meeting and the signing of the Doha Agreement were pivotal events, with 18 months of negotiations hosted by Qatar in its capital city, as reported by Khaama Press, reported Khaama Press.

Qatar’s Foreign Ministry, in its statement, highlighted issues of communication, increased coordination within the framework of human rights promotion, and ensuring a decent life for the Afghan people as part of its policy to support Afghanistan.

The statement by Qatar’s Foreign Ministry also emphasised the continued humanitarian aid committed to supporting the Afghan people and hosting meetings on the country’s issues.

Qatar has played a crucial role in facilitating dialogues and negotiations aimed at resolving the Afghan conflict, fostering a platform for discussions and agreements critical for Afghanistan’s stability, Khaama Press reported.

Amidst dire humanitarian crises and ongoing violations of human rights and women’s rights in Afghanistan, Qatar’s sustained efforts to convene international gatherings highlight a commitment to address the country’s challenges and support people.

EU provides 21 million euro aid

The World Food Programme announced that the European Union has provided a 21 million euro contribution to the Afghanistan Humanitarian Fund, according to Khaama Press.

The office declared on Friday that around 300,000 people in Afghanistan are expected to benefit from the fund.

The primary aim of this assistance is to improve food security and nutrition in Afghanistan, as the European Union stated.

Rafaela Iodice, the EU official in Afghanistan, said that the European Union will continue its assistance to the people of Afghanistan, as reported by Khaama Press.

This comes at a time when the Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, stated that the organisation has only been able to secure three per cent of the required budget to address the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.

The recent earthquakes in the country and the expulsion of migrants from neighbouring countries are raising the need for aid in Afghanistan.

The humanitarian situation in Afghanistan remains dire, with millions of people facing extreme poverty, displacement, and food insecurity, Khaama Press reported.

Moreover, years of conflict, political instability, and the Taliban’s return to power have exacerbated these challenges.

Reportedly, many families in the country lack access to necessities such as clean water, sanitation facilities and healthcare.

The ongoing violence and insecurity have also hindered humanitarian aid delivery, which has further worsened the condition of vulnerable people in Afghanistan.

Additionally, there is a severe shortage of shelters for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees returning to Afghanistan, according to Khaama Press.

Furthermore, the Taliban’s imposition of strict restrictions on women’s rights has had a devastating impact on their access to education and employment opportunities.

Afghan women and girls have been facing significant barriers to attending school or pursuing careers, denying them essential pathways to empowerment and economic independence.

Moreover, the international community should prioritize the protection and support of Afghan women’s rights as part of broader humanitarian efforts in the country, Khama Press reported. (ANI)

ALSO READ: 700 ‘Ghost Schools’ Annulled in Afghanistan

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India, Qatar chart ‘futuristic roadmap’

One of the key areas of conversation between Indian Prime Minister and Qatari Amir was the deepening of economic ties between the two nations, as both leaders expressed a commitment to enhancing trade and investment….reports Asian Lite News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held a meeting with Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and discussed ways to chart a “futuristic roadmap” to strengthen the partnership between both nations.

Both leaders deliberated to bolster bilateral relations on a wide range of issues and also exchanged perspectives on regional and global issues.

The talks, held in Doha, focused on various facets of collaboration, ranging from trade and investment to energy, space, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people ties.

“Charting a futuristic roadmap for India-Qatar partnership! A productive meeting between PM @narendramodi and the Amir of Qatar, HH @TamimBinHamad in Doha,” the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, said in a post on X.

One of the key areas of conversation was the deepening of economic ties between the two nations, as both leaders expressed a commitment to enhancing trade and investment.

Meanwhile, Modi said his visit to Qatar has added new vigour to the friendship between the two countries and that India looks forward to scaling cooperation in key sectors including trade and technology.

“My visit to Doha has added new vigour to the India-Qatar friendship. India looks forward to scaling up cooperation in key sectors relating to trade, investment, technology, and culture. I thank the Government and people of Qatar for their hospitality,” PM Modi in a post on X.

He arrived in Qatar’s capital Doha on Wednesday night from UAE. He was accorded a ceremonial welcome in Doha on Thursday and held a bilateral meeting with the Amir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. The meeting was also attended by the External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval.

PM Modi thanked the Amir Sheikh Tamim for taking care of the over 8 lakh-strong Indian community in Qatar. The two leaders met at Amiri Palace in Doha on Thursday. He also invited the Amir to pay an early visit to India.

PM Modi conveyed India’s commitment to further expanding and deepening bilateral cooperation with Qatar. The discussions covered a wide array of topics, including economic cooperation, investments, energy partnerships, space collaboration, urban infrastructure, cultural bonds and people-to-people ties. The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and global issues, the MEA said.

The Prime Minister thanked the Amir for taking care of the over 8 lakh strong Indian community in Qatar and conveyed India’s commitment to further expanding and deepening bilateral cooperation with Qatar. He invited Amir to pay an early visit to India, it added.

Amir reciprocated the Prime Minister’s sentiments and expressed appreciation for India’s role as a valued partner in the Gulf region. The Amir also appreciated the contributions of the vibrant Indian community to Qatar’s development and their enthusiastic participation in various international events held in Qatar.

The meeting was followed by a banquet lunch at the Amiri Palace, hosted in honour of the Prime Minister, said the MEA.

PM Modi also met Father Amir, Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, in Doha in the afternoon.

The Prime Minister congratulated Father Amir on his visionary leadership that paved the way for Qatar’s development over the past decades. The two leaders held discussions on India-Qatar relations.

The Prime Minister conveyed his appreciation for the insightful observations of Father Amir on regional and global developments.

Father Amir affirmed that India and Qatar share an unwavering bond, epitomized by mutual trust and cooperation. He also appreciated the role of the Indian community in Qatar’s development and in nourishing the bilateral partnership, the MEA said.

PM Modi has left for New Delhi from Doha after concluding his two-nation visit to the UAE and Qatar. He arrived in Qatar’s capital, Doha, on Wednesday night from the UAE.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that PM Modi had emplaned for Delhi after a fruitful visit to Qatar. “Wrapping up an important chapter in India-Qatar ties, PM @narendramodi emplanes for New Delhi after a fruitful visit,” he said in a post on X. (ANI)

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PM thanks Amir of Qatar for Navy veteran’s release  

The meeting was also attended by the External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval…reports Asian Lite News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday thanked the Amir of Qatar, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani for supporting the release of Indian navy veterans arrested in Doha in an alleged espionage case and also extended an invitation to pay an official visit to India.

“Prime Minister thanked His Highness the Amir for his support for the welfare of the Indian community and in this regard expressed his deep appreciation for the release of eight Indian nationals of Al Dahra company. We are extremely gratified to see them back in India. PM invited His Highness the Amir to pay a visit to India,” Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra said in a briefing on PM’s visit to Qatar.

Describing details of PM Modi’s visit to Qatar, Kwatra said that PM Modi and Amir of Qatar discussed a wide range of areas of bilateral cooperation, energy partnership, issues of regional security, cultural affinity, and people-to-people ties.

“There were three key and significant elements of Prime Minister’s program. The first was a ceremonial welcome. PM was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Amiri Diwan where His Highness Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani received him…The two leaders thereafter held detailed discussions,” he said.

“The topics of discussion included a wide range of areas of bilateral cooperation including trade partnership, investment cooperation, energy partnership, issues engaged in regional security, cultural affinity, and people-to-people ties, he added.

Additionally, both leaders also affirmed strategic investments and strategic partnerships in the field of energy and technology and discussed issues of regional and international importance.

Kwatra said, “When the two leaders spoke, they spoke about the need for strategic investments and strategic partnership in the field of energy and technology and to proceed beyond the biocellar relationship in this field. They also discussed issues of regional and international importance.”

He added, “Prime Minister’s visit to Qatar is focused on one, consolidating the wide-ranging partnership that India and Qatar have across different fields of economic cooperation. Two, also through the visit this time, build on the gains of 2016 visit, build on the gains achieved through subsequent high-level political exchanges between the two countries and lay a foundation for what the two countries, driven by the strong leadership of The Amir and the PM of India can achieve in months and years ahead, in a manner that not only expands the areas of bilateral cooperation but also increases convergences on regional issues.”

Additionally, PM Modi also held a bilateral meeting with the Amir of the State of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

The meeting was also attended by the External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval.

PM Modi arrived in Qatar’s capital Doha on Wednesday night after inaugurating the first Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi and a series of bilateral meetings with prominent leaders.

Just after he arrived in Doha, PM Modi met with his counterpart Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and the duo discussed ways to bolster ties between New Delhi and Doha.

PM Modi who arrived in Qatar on Wednesday night received a warm welcome from the Indian diaspora outside his hotel in Qatar. People carrying the Indian Tricolour and gifts for PM Modi chanted “Modi Modi” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.” PM Modi shook hands with people who had gathered outside his hotel in Doha to welcome him. Some of the people even presented him with gifts like books. People also took pictures of PM Modi as he interacted with them.

Notably, this visit came on heels of a major diplomatic triumph for India, in which eight veterans of the Indian Navy who were sentenced to death in Qatar on espionage charges, were released by Doha on Monday.

Seven out of the eight veterans have returned to India. The eighth personnel has also been released and his return is being worked out, the MEA said. (ANI)

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