India-Qatar Collaboration Can Open New Avenues for Startups: Indian Envoy

India and Qatar have significant scope to deepen cooperation in the startup and technology sectors, with the two countries able to leverage their respective strengths to create new opportunities for entrepreneurs, investors and businesses, HE Sandeep Kumar, Chargé d’Affaires at the Indian Embassy in Qatar, has said.

Taking to Qatar Tribune during an event in Doha recently, Kumar said India’s rapidly expanding technology ecosystem and Qatar’s growing focus on innovation and entrepreneurship could provide a strong foundation for greater collaboration between startups in the two countries.

He said, “India has developed a large and diverse startup ecosystem, supported by technology, digital payments and innovation, while Qatar is increasingly positioning itself as a regional hub for technology, investment andentrepreneurship.”

Greater interaction between the two ecosystems could help Indian startups explore opportunities in Qatar and the wider Gulf market, he said, while Qatari investors and companies could benefit from access to India’s large pool of technology talent and innovative businesses.

Kumar said technology could play an important role in strengthening economic and commercial ties between the two countries, particularly by connecting institutions, businesses and entrepreneurs.

He also highlighted the importance of leveraging technology to expand access to services and create new opportunities, particularly in a country as large and diverse as India.

India’s vast technology ecosystem, combined with Qatar’s investment capabilities and strategic position, could create opportunities for partnerships in areas such as fintech, digital services, artificial intelligence, e-commerce, logistics and other emerging technologies.

The growing economic relationship between India and Qatar also provides a strong platform for startups to explore cross-border partnerships, investment and market access.

The Indian diplomat said discussions on strengthening bilateral economic ties were continuing, including work towards a potential free trade agreements.

On the proposed free trade agreement, Kumar said negotiations between India and the GCC are progressing, while India is also working on a bilateral FTA with Qatar.

India and the GCC signed the terms of reference for an India-GCC Free Trade Agreement in February 2026, paving the way for formal negotiations.

“We are discussing different aspects of the bilateral FTA as the negotiations are on and it is moving smoothly,” he said.

A stronger trade framework, coupled with closer technology and investment cooperation, could further encourage Indian and Qatari startups to explore each other’s markets and build partnerships, he added.