PM Modi ready for talks with Qatari Emir

NEW DELHI: The central government has started efforts to provide relief to eight ex-Indian naval officers, including a native of Thiruvananthapuram who was sentenced to death for espionage. It is understood that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold direct talks with the Emir of Qatar on this issue.

PM Modi maintains good camaraderie with Qatar kingdom. The Ministry of External Affairs concluded that this would facilitate negotiations easily. When Emir came to India in 2015, he was given a warm welcome. India will work on ways to bring the case to a favourable position when the issue reaches the appellate court.

However, at the same time, Qatar has not informed India officially about the charges levelled against the Eight ex-navy officials detained. According to reports, the ex-navy officials are charged with espionage activities they did for Israel, India’s best friend.

The opposition has accused the Ministry of External Affairs of failing to intervene diplomatically. The Indian consulate was criticized for not being able to provide legal assistance in a timely manner.