Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his two-day visit to Oman yesterday. His visit marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Prime Minister Modi’s interaction with Sultan of Oman Haitham bin Tarik not only further strengthened the centuries-old ties but also won the hearts of the Indian diaspora living there for many generations. Both sides expressed satisfaction with the excellent state of India-Oman relations, describing them as a multifaceted strategic partnership.
The Prime Minister was accorded a ceremonial reception at the Royal Palace and was conferred with the ‘Order of Oman’ award, the Sultanate’s uniquely distinct civilian honour, for his exceptional contribution to India-Oman ties and visionary leadership. Indians who assembled at the Exhibition Centre in large numbers to listen to the PM gave him a rousing welcome.
The Prime Minister also responded by wishing them in different languages, terming their presence as ‘Mini India’. A Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and 6 Memorandums of Understanding were signed in various fields, including maritime cooperation, higher education, agriculture and millet cultivation.
While addressing a business forum having industry leaders from India and Oman, the Prime Minister proposed the creation of the India-Oman Agri Innovation Hub and the India-Oman Innovation Bridge to make the business partnership future-ready. He reaffirmed that India and Oman are not just close neighbours, but strategic partners as well, committed to stability, growth and shared prosperity in the region and beyond.
In a joint statement, both leaders expressed satisfaction at the excellent state of bilateral relations, spanning trade, investment, defence, security, technology, education and people-to-people ties. They also reviewed the ongoing initiatives and cooperation in the areas identified in the Joint Vision Document, adopted during the visit of the Sultan of Oman to India in December 2023. They condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, reaffirming that no justification can ever be accepted for such acts.
Both sides also expressed concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza and called for safe and timely delivery of humanitarian aid to civilians. They welcomed the signing of the first phase of the Gaza Peace Plan and reiterated their support for it. While concluding his successful visit, Mr Modi thanked Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik for the warm welcome and kind hospitality extended to him and his delegation. He also invited Sthe ultan to pay a visit to India.
