PM Modi, Emir of Qatar discuss steps to curb terrorism

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Ahmad bin Khalifa Al Thani discussed steps to combat terrorism in a telephonic conversation on Saturday.

Prime Minister Modi underscored that terrorism continues to pose a serious risk to peace and security in the region and beyond.

He also stressed the importance of demonstrable and immediate action by the concerned for putting an end to all forms of terrorism and ending all support to it.

Prime Minister Modi also mentioned that India attached great significance to further strengthening relations with Qatar, which, he said, is "our close friend and with which we share an extended neighbourhood."

He went on to thank the Emir of Qatar for his leadership and guidance to the rapid strengthening of bilateral relations, especially in recent years.

During the conversation, the two leaders also noted the historic significance of India's participation in the 46th Council of the Foreign Ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Abu Dhabi on Friday.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj attended the OIC meeting as the 'Guest of Honour,' making it the first time in OIC's 50-year history.