Doha: The Ambassador of India to the State of Qatar, P Kumaran (pictured) praised the Indian-Qatari deep-rooted ties, which is nurtured through history by active people-to-people contacts, trade and commerce and cultural affinities.
In a statement to Qatar News Agency (QNA), the Ambassador stressed that India has a vital interest in the peace and security of the Gulf region, given the presence of over 9 million Indian expatriates in the region, adding international terrorism, violent extremism and religious intolerance pose a grave threat to the stability and security of the region and beyond.
He added, “We must all work together to meet these challenges for the mutual benefit and well-being of our peoples. We are of the view that GCC countries, which are like one large family, should resolve their differences through a frank dialogue, based on mutual respect, sovereignty and non-interference in each other’s internal affairs, leading to a lasting resolution of all outstanding issues. We welcome the efforts of H H the Amir of Kuwait to promote a peaceful resolution of the crisis. We join other world powers in supporting Kuwaiti efforts to mediate a solution.”
The Ambassador pointed out that the recent visit of India’s External Affairs Minister, Sushma Swaraj to Qatar witnessed the signing of a Joint Declaration to Establish a Joint Commission between the two countries and that 2019 has also been designated as the Qatar-India Year of Culture, expecting that a series of events will be organized during the course of the year. He appreciated the impressive strides made by the State of Qatar in a number of areas, including education, industry, business, infrastructure, tourism and social development.
The Ambassador said: “I wish to convey to Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani; Father Amir H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, and representatives of the Government of Qatar and the people of Qatar our warmest greetings on the occasion of Qatar National Day.”
