Qatar

1. PM Modi and the Emir of Qatar held bilateral talks in Doha, their first interaction since the release of eight Indian Navy veterans detained in Qatar.
2. The discussions are expected to encompass a range of issues, with the recent release enhancing bilateral relations.
3. PM Modi’s visit signifies progress in reconciliation efforts after the release of the veterans who were detained for nearly 18 months.

Qatar, Feb 15: Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in bilateral talks with the Emir of Qatar in Doha on Thursday, marking their first interaction since the release of eight Indian Navy veterans who were detained in Qatar for several months.

The discussions between PM Modi and the Emir are anticipated to cover various topics, with the recent release of the Indian nationals contributing positively to the relationship between the two nations.

PM Modi’s visit to Qatar commenced on Wednesday night as part of his official itinerary.

This trip marks his second visit to the oil-rich country, with his previous visit occurring in June 2016.

Also Read: Mamata Banerjee Holds RSS Responsible for Sandeshkhali Unrest, Accuses BJP of Targeting Trinamool Leader

Earlier today, PM Modi met with his Qatari counterpart, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, where they explored avenues to bolster bilateral relations.

The visit signifies a significant step towards reconciliation following the release of the eight retired servicemen who had been detained in Qatar for nearly 18 months.

In August 2022, the ex-Navy personnel were arrested on espionage charges in Qatar, receiving death sentences.

India vehemently refuted the accusations, urging Qatar to reconsider the verdict and emphasizing the innocence of the accused.

The situation led to diplomatic tensions, prompting India to summon the Qatari ambassador and appeal for a review of the verdict.

After sustained efforts and interventions, a Qatari court commuted the death sentence to life imprisonment in November.

Subsequent endeavors, including appeals by PM Modi to the Emir, ultimately resulted in the release of the eight individuals on February 9, 2024, with seven of them returning home three days later.