Muscat, Dec 18 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed for New Delhi on Thursday afternoon after wrapping up his significant visit to Muscat. The brother of Oman’s Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik and the Sultanate's Deputy Prime Minister for Defence Affairs, Sayyid Shihab bin Tariq Al Said, extended his farewells to PM Modi at the airport after the conclusion of his engagements in the nation.

Emphasizing the historic bond between the two nations and their warm friendship, both leaders embraced and shook hands. The Oman Deputy PM was also seen performing the traditional Indian greeting Namaste as PM Modi waved goodbye.

Earlier, the Sultan of Oman honored PM Modi with 'The First Class of the Order of Oman' for his remarkable contributions to India-Oman relations and his visionary leadership.

Prime Minister Modi dedicated this prestigious award to the longstanding friendship between the two nations, referring to it as a tribute to the affection shared between the 1.4 billion people of India and the people of Oman.

The bestowal of the honor coincided with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Oman, adding special significance to the occasion and the Strategic Partnership.

Instituted in 1970 by Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the Order of Oman has been awarded to select global leaders, including Queen Elizabeth, Queen Maxim, Emperor Akihito, Nelson Mandela, and King Abdullah of Jordan, recognizing their contributions to public life and bilateral relations.

This marks PM Modi's 29th global honor.

On Thursday, PM Modi and Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik engaged in detailed discussions on enhancing the strategic partnership. They also observed the signing of significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements.

The leaders welcomed the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), labeling it a milestone in their bilateral relations, expressing confidence that it would fortify their strategic partnership. They also deliberated on matters of regional and global interest.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and other officials attended the discussions at the Al Baraka Palace in Muscat.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X, stating, "Celebrating 70 years of India-Oman diplomatic ties: An all-encompassing relationship, united by maritime heritage and shared destiny!" He emphasized that the completion of 70 years of diplomatic relations between India and Oman is a landmark in their bilateral partnership, exploring ways to further enhance the India-Oman Strategic Partnership.

During the meeting, both leaders exchanged views on various topics, including defense, security, trade and investment, energy, agriculture, technology, and cultural ties, along with issues of regional and global concern.

PM Modi addressed the Indian community at the 'Maitri Parv' event in Muscat and also spoke at the India-Oman Business Forum.

He highlighted the abundant potential to deepen economic ties and encouraged Omani businesses to invest and innovate in India.

Upon his arrival in Muscat, PM Modi was warmly welcomed by Sayyid Shihab bin Tariq Al Said, who received him at the airport with a Guard of Honour as part of the ceremonial welcome.

This marks PM Modi's second visit to Oman, underscoring the deepening of the India-Oman strategic partnership.

He received a warm reception from the Indian community at his hotel in Muscat, with hundreds waving Indian flags and chanting "Modi Modi", "Bharat Mata ki Jai", and "Vande Mataram" in enthusiastic support.

PM Modi's trip to Oman followed his two-day State visit to Ethiopia.