This episode of Policy Beyond Borders with Dr Md Mudassar Quamar uncovers the ambitions driving Qatar's National development Vision 2030, the potential for collaboration with India, and the balancing act amidst China's influence.

Key Takeaways

1. Qatar's National Vision 2030 aims for an advanced society with sustainable development and a high standard of living. Its focus areas include human, economic, social, and environmental development. Despite challenges like structural issues, geopolitical factors, and the COVID-19 pandemic, Qatar has experienced high economic growth, particularly in sports, gas production, and exports. The execution of its vision through different national development strategies reflects both opportunities and challenges.

2. In light of this, India and Qatar have immense opportunities to strengthen ties in diverse areas such as food, energy (including renewables), climate change, education, and cultural exchange, creating immense potential for cooperation and mutual growth.

3. China poses a challenge for India's engagement with Qatar due to Qatar's alignment with the Belt and Road Initiative and its substantial trade with China, especially in LNG supply. China’s significant investments in sectors like healthcare and technology may outpace India's efforts. However, India's increasing diplomatic and economic engagement could pave the way for stronger cooperation, leveraging its large Indian expatriate population in Qatar.

4. India takes a balanced approach when engaging with Middle Eastern countries, carefully managing its relations with Qatar and other Gulf nations. India and Qatar's relationship is based on bilateral ties, independent of other regional influences. Projects like the India Middle East Europe Economic Corridor highlight Qatar's strategic positioning within the region. Better economic integration can influence geopolitics, reducing tensions and fostering stability through improved connectivity  and trade relations.