Muscat, Dec 18 (NationPress) The Indian community in Oman is buzzing with enthusiasm for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit, where he will engage with them during the 'Maitri Parv' event on Thursday.

The 'Maitri Parv' event is being held at the Oman Convention Centre.

Community members eagerly voiced their support by chanting 'Modi Modi' and 'Vande Mataram' as they awaited his arrival.

One individual from the Indian community expressed, 'We haven’t slept all night. We are eagerly waiting for him. Our emotions are running high, and we are thrilled about his visit.'

Upon arrival in Muscat, PM Modi was greeted warmly by Oman's Deputy Prime Minister for Defence Affairs, Sayyid Shihab bin Tariq Al Said, at the airport. The two leaders exchanged warm greetings, and PM Modi received a ceremonial Guard of Honour.

Another community member remarked, 'Our Prime Minister is here, and we are here to witness 'Mini India' in Oman.'

One member of the community noted their fortune, stating, 'We are the luckiest generation in India, as we have the privilege of experiencing PM Modi’s governance. We feel incredibly lucky to be born during Modi's time.'

Another community member commented, 'The Prime Minister's visits always create a festive atmosphere.'

Later in the day, PM Modi will engage in extensive discussions with Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, focusing on enhancing bilateral relations.

Key discussion topics will include trade, investment, energy collaboration, defence, technology, agriculture, and cultural exchanges. They will also discuss regional and global matters of shared interest.

This marks Prime Minister Modi's second visit to Oman, highlighting the deepening India-Oman strategic partnership.

The previous day, members of the Indian community welcomed PM Modi at his hotel in Muscat with Indian flags, chanting slogans like 'Modi Modi', 'Bharat Mata ki Jai', and 'Vande Mataram'.

During the welcome, PM Modi interacted with numerous community members who gathered in large numbers 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 also comes after Sultan Haitham bin Tariq's visit to India in December 2023, showcasing the high level of political engagement between the two nations.

In a media briefing before the visit, Arun Kumar Chatterjee, Secretary (Consular, Passport and Visa, Overseas Indian Affairs) in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), noted that this is Prime Minister Modi's second trip to Oman since February 2018, reflecting the long-standing India-Oman relationship rooted in centuries of maritime trade and interpersonal connections.

'The Honourable Prime Minister will conduct a detailed review of the entire range of bilateral relations with His Majesty the Sultan of Oman, while also sharing insights on regional and international topics of mutual concern,' Chatterjee stated.

India and Oman currently maintain a comprehensive strategic partnership, characterized by strong cooperation across various sectors. Oman is a crucial partner for India in the Gulf region, with notable collaborations in energy security, maritime cooperation, and regional stability.