In a statement at the inaugural session of the India-Qatar Business Forum in New Delhi, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, emphasized that the future partnership between India and Qatar will be based on the pillars of sustainability, technology, entrepreneurship, and energy. The event was graced by H.E. Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani, the Hon’ble Minister of Commerce and Industry of Qatar.
Minister Goyal noted that the long-standing partnership between the two countries is rooted in trust, trade, and tradition. He highlighted the evolving terms of trade, shifting from traditional energy trade to emerging sectors like artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), quantum computing, and semiconductors. The geopolitical climate, climate change, cybersecurity threats, and global shifts toward localization, Goyal pointed out, are key factors influencing this transformation.
Addressing the growing focus on sustainable development, Goyal mentioned that both nations have significant opportunities to collaborate in the energy sector. He underscored India’s commitment to expanding renewable energy sources, aligning with global sustainability goals, and fostering partnerships in clean energy technologies. Qatar’s investments in sustainable practices and India’s renewable energy ambitions offer a strong foundation for a collaborative future.
Minister Goyal also highlighted two major agreements: the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between the Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), and another between Invest Qatar and Invest India. These agreements are expected to further strengthen economic ties and sustainability-focused projects. In a move towards deeper cooperation, Goyal announced the elevation of the Joint Working Group on trade and commerce to the Ministerial level.
Citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statement, “Today be it major nations or global platforms, the confidence in India is stronger than ever before,” Goyal invited Qatari businesses to invest in India’s growth trajectory, particularly in sectors like renewable energy, infrastructure, and the expansion of smart cities. He emphasized that India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision and Qatar’s Vision 2030 will drive a brighter future for both countries, with energy and sustainability playing key roles in shaping this collaborative path.
