Qatar in Colour |
“This year is special – and we are already off
to a flying-start. We have many celebrations
to mark the Year of Culture, from Bollywood
music and dance, to film festivals and painting
and photography exhibitions. We have tried to
showcase a little of everything.”
Mr P Kumaran,
Ambassador of India to the State of Qatar
| Kathak dancers perform at Katara Cultural Village
“When they arrived, the traders used to wait for the
ships to be filled up with products to take back to Qatar.
Traders would stay in India for several months, and in
some cases started families while they waited. So, these
links between our nations go back several centuries.”
This centuries-old relationship has led to both Qatar
and India placing importance on collaboration in youth
and cultural affairs. Mr Kumaran states that he aims
to continue to “enhance the awareness of the younger
generation about these traditional bonds”, adding that
“the celebrations as part of the Qatar-India Year of
Culture offer our two countries a unique opportunity
to renew and revitalise our special bonds of cultural
heritage.”
the coming years, and the new business-friendly policy
environment, presents a win-win scenario for both
countries.”
“I admire the warm and welcoming nature of the Qatari
people.” Mr Kumaran ended by stating; “They, along with
the large and well-regarded Indian community, make me,
and my family, feel completely at home in Qatar.”
Looking towards the future, Mr Kumaran believes India
and Qatar can become even closer. “Qatar is currently
the most important source of LNG for India, and will
therefore continue to be a key energy security partner for
many years to come,” he says.
“Our trade and investment ties, which are already
impressive, have significant potential for further growth.
Increasing Qatar’s investment in the Indian economy,
taking advantage of the high growth rates projected for
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