What was discussed between PM Modi and Oman Sultan in Muscat?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Strengthening bilateral ties between India and Oman.
- Focus on trade and investment as key areas for cooperation.
- Significance of the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
- Oman as a crucial partner in the Gulf region.
- Engagements with the Indian community highlight cultural connections.
Muscat, Dec 18 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman convened for a bilateral meeting in Muscat on Thursday, accompanied by External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, and various other officials.
The two leaders exchanged warm greetings at the Al Baraka Palace before launching into discussions that are poised to address critical topics such as trade and investment, energy cooperation, defence and security, technology, agriculture, and cultural exchanges. They will also share insights on regional and global matters of mutual concern.
Earlier that day, PM Modi spoke to the Indian community at the 'Maitri Parv' event in Muscat and participated in the India-Oman Business Forum.
PM Modi's arrival in Muscat on Wednesday marked the concluding leg of his three-nation tour. Upon landing, he received a warm welcome from Oman's Deputy Prime Minister for Defence Affairs, Sayyid Shihab bin Tariq Al Said.
A Guard of Honour was presented to PM Modi as part of the formal reception.
This visit marks Prime Minister Modi's second trip to Oman, highlighting the deepening strategic partnership between India and Oman.
Members of the Indian community also extended a heartfelt welcome to PM Modi at his hotel in Muscat, where hundreds waved Indian flags and chanted slogans such as 'Modi Modi' and 'Vande Mataram'.
During his welcome ceremony, PM Modi engaged with numerous community members and enjoyed various cultural performances.
This visit is particularly significant as it coincides with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Oman. It follows Sultan Haitham bin Tariq's state visit to India in December 2023, symbolizing high-level political engagement.
In a pre-visit briefing, Arun Kumar Chatterjee, Secretary (Consular, Passport and Visa, Overseas Indian Affairs) in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), noted that this would be PM Modi's second visit to Oman since his first in February 2018. He emphasized the enduring nature of India-Oman relations, which are based on centuries-old maritime trade and people-to-people connections.
"The Honourable Prime Minister will comprehensively review the full spectrum of bilateral relations with His Majesty the Sultan of Oman and exchange perspectives on regional and international matters of mutual interest," Chatterjee stated.
India and Oman currently enjoy a comprehensive strategic partnership characterized by strong cooperation across various sectors. Oman is a key partner for India in the Gulf region, particularly in areas of energy security, maritime cooperation, and regional stability.