In a major diplomatic victory for India, Qatar has released eight Indian navy veterans previously sentenced to death for espionage. In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed the veterans back and thanked the Emir of the State of Qatar for facilitating their release.

“The Government of India welcomes the release of eight Indian nationals working at Dahra Global who were detained in Qatar. Seven of the eight have returned to India. We appreciate the decision taken by the Emir of the State of Qatar to release these nationals and return home,” MEA said in a statement.

Back home, seven Navy veterans have praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for ensuring necessary diplomatic intervention to secure their release.

The former naval officers were accused of spying on the submarine program, where they were first sentenced to death. But thanks to diplomatic intervention by New Delhi, a Qatari court commuted their death sentences to extended jail terms.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has assured the families that they will use all possible diplomatic channels to allow these veterans to return home.

Breathing the air of their motherland, seven Navy veterans arrived at the Delhi airport chanting “Bharat Mata Ki Jai”.

Speaking to ANI, one of the veterans praised Prime Minister Modi for increasing the sentencing to Qatar Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and also appreciated Prime Minister Modi for constantly following his request. diplomatic efforts.

“I feel relieved and happy to finally be home safe and sound. I would like to thank Prime Minister Modi, none of this would have been possible without his personal intervention to secure our release. I would also like to thank the Emir of the State of Qatar Hetamim bin Hamas Al Thani expresses his gratitude.”

With a smile on his face, another veteran said, “Without Prime Minister Modi’s intervention, we would not have been able to walk free. Without his tireless efforts and intervention at the highest level to make us free, we would not be here today.” I won’t stand in front of you.”

The release of these veterans is also a major diplomatic victory for the country as Qatar took the decision after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Qatari Emir Sheikh Tami during the COP28 summit in Dubai a few weeks ago M bin Hamad al-Thani.

Prime Minister Modi said that during the meeting, they discussed the welfare of the Indian community in Qatar.

(With ANI input)