In a special gesture, Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally welcomed the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, at Indira Gandhi International Airport upon his arrival for a two-day state visit to India.

The two leaders exchanged a warm hug, reflecting the close and friendly ties between the two nations.

The Amir of Qatar, accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising ministers, senior officials, and business leaders, is visiting India for the first time since his state visit in March 2015.

On February 18, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani will be accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhawan forecourt. During his visit, he will meet President Droupadi Murmu, who will host a banquet in his honor. The Amir will also hold comprehensive discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, covering various aspects of the bilateral relationship.

India and Qatar share deep-rooted historical ties built on friendship, trust, and mutual respect. In recent years, their partnership has expanded significantly across sectors such as trade, investment, energy, technology, culture, and people-to-people exchanges.

The Indian expatriate community in Qatar, the largest foreign community in the country, is recognized for its contributions to Qatar’s progress and development, according to an official statement.

(Inputs from ANI)