Indian PM Narendra Modi and visiting Qatar Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani held bilateral talks in New Delhi on Tuesday when they decided to elevate the relationship between the two nations to the Strategic Partnership level.

"Further cementing the deep & traditional relationship," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X sharing details about the meeting.

The two leaders held a wide range of talks at Hyderabad House.

Several MoUs were signed during the meeting.

"Both leaders decided to elevate India-Qatar relations to a Strategic Partnership with focus on trade, energy, investments, innovation, technology, food security, culture & people-to-people ties," Jaiswal said.

They exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest.

PM Modi breaks protocol

Breaking protocol, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was present at the Indira Gandhi International Airport on Monday to receive the Amir (Head) of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, upon his arrival in India.

In a post on X, PM Modi said: “Went to the airport to welcome my brother, Amir of Qatar H.H. Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani. Wishing him a fruitful stay in India and looking forward to our meeting tomorrow."

The Qatar Amir is visiting India at the invitation of Modi.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Amir was accorded ceremonial guard of honour at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

India-Qatar relationship

MEA said India and Qatar have deep-rooted historical ties of friendship, trust and mutual respect.

In recent years, the ties between the two countries including in the areas of trade, investment, energy, technology, culture and people-to-people ties have continued to strengthen.

The Indian community residing in Qatar forms the largest expatriate community of Qatar, and is appreciated for its positive contribution in the progress and development of Qatar.

“The visit of the Amir will provide further momentum to our growing multifaceted partnership,” MEA said.