Press Release
Visit of Shri V. Muraleedharan, Minister of State for External Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs to the State of Qatar
May 10, 2022
Shri V. Muraleedharan, Hon’ble Minister of State for External Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs visited Qatar from May 8 -10, 2022. During the visit, he held fruitful and productive discussions with his counterpart H.E. Mr. Soltan bin Saad Al-Muraikhi, State Minister for Foreign Affairs, H.E. Mr. Hassan bin Abdulla Al-Ghanim, Speaker of the Shura Council and members of the Shura Council.
Both sides positively assessed the growing bilateral cooperation, including in the fields of trade, investment, energy, security, defence, education, culture, health and people to people contacts and resolved to further deepen them. It was agreed to continue the momentum of high-level exchanges between the two countries and hold the first meeting of the bilateral Joint Commission at the level of Foreign Ministers in India at an early date. Both sides agreed to promote parliamentary exchanges and hold a series of events to commemorate 50 years of the establishment of full diplomatic relations between India and Qatar in 2023.
At a public reception hosted at the Indian Cultural Centre, Hon’ble MoS highlighted the transformational journey of India under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and highlighted the significant role of the Indian diaspora during the Amrit Kaal in run up to the centenary of India’s independence. He participated in a cultural programme to mark Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav.
Hon’ble MoS participated in the International Labour Day celebrations held at Asian Town Labour city with thousands of Indian workers and highlighted Government of India’s welfare measures for the migrant workers. He interacted with many blue collar workers over dinner and listened to their experiences and challenges. He welcomed the progressive labour reform measures adopted by the State of Qatar. He also visited the residential quarters of the Indian fishermen and interacted with them. He appreciated their contribution to local food security.
Hon’ble MoS also inaugurated the Indian Pavilion in Doha Jewelry and Watches Exhibition and visited the participating Indian exhibitors. He appreciated their role in fostering new business partnerships and expanding bilateral trade. He also visited the Ali Bin Ali FIFA Stadium that has been constructed by the Indian company M/s L&T.
Hon’ble MoS visited the Inter-denominational Christian Church Complex of the Indian community. He also held separate meetings with the representatives from various Indian community organizations, including those working in areas of community welfare, business, health, culture, sports, education, engineering and accountancy. He underlined that their contributions remain vital in building Brand India and appreciated their work during the challenging times of Covid pandemic.
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