What’s on the Agenda? S Jaishankar’s Diplomatic Mission in the Gulf

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is on a diplomatic mission across the Gulf, meeting with leaders in Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman. His discussions focus on enhancing bilateral cooperation in areas such as energy, trade, and security, while also addressing regional tensions, particularly the US-Iran conflict. This visit aims to strengthen India's strategic partnerships in the region and set the stage for future engagements, including a campaign for a UN Security Council seat.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 5, 2026, 19:58 IST

Strengthening Ties in the Gulf Region

Doha: On Sunday, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held discussions with Qatar's Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, focusing on various aspects of their bilateral relationship, including energy, trade, investment, connectivity, and security.

Jaishankar's trip, which spans from July 5 to 10, includes visits to Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman.

This diplomatic mission occurs amid shifting political landscapes in West Asia, particularly following a recent agreement aimed at resolving tensions between the US and Iran.

During the meeting, Jaishankar expressed gratitude to the Qatari Prime Minister for his efforts in safeguarding the Indian community residing in Qatar.

He shared on social media, "Reviewed various facets of our bilateral cooperation especially energy, trade, investments, connectivity, security and people-to-people ties. Explored new opportunities for deepening our Strategic Partnership."

A pleasure to meet Qatar PM & FM @MBA_AlThani_ in Doha today.

Thanked him for ensuring the safety and well-being of the Indian community.

Reviewed various facets of our bilateral cooperation especially energy, trade, investments, connectivity, security and people to people… pic.twitter.com/qqQuXr8ELe

— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) July 5, 2026

Jaishankar also engaged in discussions regarding the West Asia conflict and its implications with PM Al-Thani, who also serves as Qatar's foreign minister.

Throughout this visit, he is set to meet with counterparts and key leaders from the four Gulf nations to bolster bilateral relations and share insights on regional matters.

Qatar and Oman, along with Pakistan, have taken on mediating roles in facilitating a ceasefire with Iran after a period of heightened tensions. Indirect negotiations between the US and Iran in Doha are expected to proceed following the week-long mourning period for Iran's late supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, which commenced on Friday.

Following his engagements in the Gulf, Jaishankar will head to New York on July 13 to kick off India's campaign for a seat on the UN Security Council for the 2028-29 term. He will also participate in the 3rd India-EU Trade and Technology Council meeting in Brussels on July 14-15, where he will interact with EU and Belgian officials.