New Delhi, Dec 10 (NationPress) Oman's Ambassador to India, Issa Saleh Abdullah Saleh Alshibani, described Prime Minister Narendra Modi's forthcoming trip to Oman as both crucial and strategic, emphasizing its significance in strengthening the bilateral ties between the two nations.

In an interview with IANS, Alshibani remarked that PM Modi's visit will enhance business confidence in recognizing Oman as a viable destination for investments.

When queried about the relevance of PM Modi's journey to Oman, he responded, "It's of immense significance, highly strategic. It serves multiple purposes for our event today. It sends a robust message to businesses regarding the profound and enduring rapport that Oman and India share, and it will further instill confidence in businesses considering Oman as a destination for investment."

Reports indicate that PM Modi is expected to arrive in Oman later this month, marking his second visit. His first was in February 2018 when he met with the then-Sultan Qaboos bin Said to discuss various bilateral, regional, and global matters of shared interest, as per the Indian Embassy in Oman.

Alshibani also expressed satisfaction at the release of an Indian national from Houthi captivity, stating that Oman has been committed to humanitarian efforts for many years.

Addressing the release of the Kerala man from Houthi captivity and India's acknowledgment of Oman's role, Alshibani stated, "We were delighted to see the individual return to his family, and Oman has been active in humanitarian endeavors. It has earned the trust of neighboring countries and the global community, leveraging that trust to provide humanitarian assistance wherever necessary."

On December 4, India celebrated the release of Anilkumar Raveendran, an Army veteran from Kerala, who had been held by Houthi rebels in conflict-stricken Yemen. India publicly thanked Oman for facilitating Raveendran's release.

Raveendran, aged 52, hailing from Pathiyoor, was detained by Houthi-controlled Yemeni authorities since July 7. He was serving as a security officer aboard the Liberian-flagged cargo vessel MV Eternity when it was attacked and ultimately sunk in the Red Sea.

When asked about the recent cricket match between India and Oman and the popularity of cricket in Oman, Alshibani replied, "In Oman, there's a love for all sports, and cricket undoubtedly has its enthusiasts. It is a sport that is gaining traction. While football has traditionally been the dominant sport here, other sports, including cricket, are now flourishing. This growth reflects the strength of people-to-people relations, as we recognize the importance of cricket within the Indian community, and it's encouraging to see a rising interest in the sport in Oman."