New Delhi, 10 April (H.S.):

Amid escalating tensions in West Asia, Qatar has reiterated its steadfast commitment to remain a dependable energy supplier to India. Qatar's Minister of State for Energy Affairs, Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, extended this assurance during talks in Doha with Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri.

The ministers urged sustained stability in global markets despite the prevailing unrest. Puri was on a two-day visit to Qatar from April 9-10. During the trip, he conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's message of solidarity to Qatari leadership in the wake of the regional conflict's outbreak. He personally delivered PM Modi's greetings and support to Qatar's Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and the Prime Minister.

The discussions spanned all facets of the strategic ties between the two nations, including high-level engagements, trade, investment, energy, culture, and people-to-people connections. Both leaders expressed optimism for a swift return to peace and stability in the region, alongside further strengthening of bilateral relations.

They welcomed the two-week ceasefire announced on April 8 and emphasized the urgent need to eliminate disruptions in global energy supply chains. The duo also underscored the critical importance of uninterrupted navigation to preserve supply lines.

Puri's visit comes at a pivotal moment as India seeks to safeguard its energy security amid global volatilities. Qatar remains India's largest source of LNG and LPG, accounting for 45% and 20% of supplies, respectively.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar