Qatar seeks Indian investment in infrastructure

Qatar needs Indian investment in infrastructure development and cooperation in its privatization process, Sultan bin Rashid Al Khatir, under secretary in Qatar's ministry of economy and commerce, said here Wednesday.

He was speaking at the Qatar Business forum organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry. A 15-member Qatari delegation and about 40 senior representatives from Indian industry participated in the event.

India's Minister of State for Commerce and Industry E.M.S. Natchiappan on his part said as India was also embarking on a major infrastructure programme and investment from Qatar would facilitate development.

He said India was developing several industrial corridors in the country and these projects presented a myriad of opportunities for investment by Qatari business.

Anil Wadhwa, secretary (East), in the external affairs ministry, proposed that the two countries step up their engagement in the energy sector.

He felt that the two countries could also develop joint projects in third countries.

Wadhwa said the volume and composition of bilateral trade between the two countries is not in commensurate with its potential.

Speaking about the opportunity presented by forthcoming FIFA World Cup in Qatar in 2022, Wadhwa said that Indian companies would be ready and willing to help Qatar develop the necessary infrastructure for the successful organization of this tournament.