PM Modi Receives Warm Welcome in Doha, Qatar

Defense News ,India :- Prime Minister Narendra Modi experienced a heartfelt reception from the Indian diaspora outside his hotel in Qatar during his two-day official visit. The enthusiastic crowd, adorned with Indian Tricolour and carrying gifts, passionately chanted "Modi Modi" and "Bharat Mata Ki Jai." This warm welcome showcased the strong connection between the Indian community and their leader.

PM Modi graciously engaged with the crowd, shaking hands and accepting gifts, including books, from well-wishers. The exchange was captured through photographs as the Prime Minister interacted with the people who had gathered outside his hotel in Doha.

Expressing his gratitude, PM Modi shared the exceptional welcome on social media, stating, "An exceptional welcome in Doha! Grateful to the Indian diaspora." His arrival in Doha marked the second leg of his official visit, having concluded his successful trip to the UAE.

Upon landing in Qatar, PM Modi was welcomed at the airport by Qatar's State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Soltan bin Saad Al-Muraikhi. Reflecting on his arrival, PM Modi shared on social media, "Landed in Doha. Looking forward to a fruitful Qatar visit which will deepen India-Qatar friendship."

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized the significance of PM Modi's visit to Qatar, stating that it would enhance the historic and deep-rooted ties between the two nations. This visit marked PM Modi's second to Qatar, with his initial visit occurring in June 2016.

In a social media post, Jaiswal highlighted the purpose of the visit, saying, "Giving a filip to the historic and deep-rooted bonds with Qatar! PM @narendramodi arrives on a visit to Doha. Wide-ranging talks with Qatari leadership on strengthening bilateral partnership lie ahead."

Following his arrival, PM Modi held a productive meeting with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani. Their discussions focused on ways to enhance the friendship between India and Qatar. PM Modi shared his positive experience, stating, "Had a wonderful meeting with PM @MBA_AlThani_. Our discussions revolved around ways to boost India-Qatar friendship."

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal elaborated on the discussions, mentioning that the leaders covered various sectors, including trade, investment, energy, and finance, with the aim of expanding bilateral cooperation.

In a press release, MEA stated, "On 15 February, Prime Minister will meet the Amir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and hold talks on bilateral as well as regional and global issues."

PM Modi, in a statement, underscored the historically close and friendly relations between India and Qatar. He highlighted the deepening ties in areas such as high-level political exchanges, trade and investment, energy partnerships, and cultural and educational cooperation. The Prime Minister also acknowledged the significant presence of over 800,000 Indian nationals in Doha, emphasizing the strong people-to-people ties between the two nations.

PM Modi expressed anticipation for the meeting with Qatar Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, acknowledging Qatar's remarkable growth and transformation under his leadership. The visit holds added significance as it follows a recent diplomatic victory for India, with the release of eight ex-Indian Navy personnel who were detained in Qatar for nearly 18 months on espionage charges since August 2022.

This visit underscores the importance of diplomatic ties, fostering collaboration, and celebrating shared achievements, further strengthening the bond between India and Qatar.