How Are India and Oman Strengthening Their Defence Relations?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Strengthened defence ties between India and Oman.
- Emphasis on joint development and technology sharing.
- Focus on regional stability and mutual security.
- Commitment to enhancing indigenous manufacturing.
- Continuous high-level dialogues to bolster collaboration.
New Delhi, Nov 24 (NationPress) In a significant move, India and Oman convened the 13th Joint Military Cooperation Committee meeting in New Delhi on Monday, emphasizing their dedication to enhancing defence industrial collaboration, focusing on joint development, technology transfer, and expanded production partnerships.
The meeting was co-chaired by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Mohammed Bin Naseer Bin Ali Al Zaabi, Secretary General of Oman's Ministry of Defence. As stated by the Ministry of Defence, the two nations evaluated their strong defence cooperation and explored avenues to further amplify bilateral ties across various sectors.
The discussions also encompassed regional and international security dynamics, particularly concerning the Indian Ocean Region.
"The focus was on establishing long-term frameworks that facilitate the co-development of advanced platforms, enhance indigenous manufacturing, and bolster strategic resilience. Both nations concurred that tighter defence industrial collaboration is crucial for regional stability, mutual security interests, and sustainable defence modernization. The meeting underscored the robust strategic partnership between India and Oman and highlighted both countries' commitment to maintaining a steady high-level dialogue," the Ministry of Defence added.
Earlier that day, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan met with Mohammed Bin Nasser Bin Ali Al-Zaabi to discuss enhancing defence cooperation through advancements in the Military Logistic Complex, improved collaboration in shipbuilding, Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO), reinforced training cooperation, and prospects for defence exports.
In a statement on X, the Integrated Defence Staff Headquarters reported, "General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff CDS, engaged in an extensive dialogue with HE Dr Mohammed Bin Nasser Bin Ali Al-Zaabi, Secretary General, MoD, Sultanate of Oman. The discussions reaffirmed the commitment to deepen Defence Cooperation through advancements in the Military Logistic Complex, enhanced shipbuilding collaboration, MRO, fortified training cooperation, and opportunities for defence exports."
"Both parties also shared insights on strengthening maritime security, enhancing border management, and ensuring smoother operational turnaround for IN platforms, alongside efficient IAF and IN flight clearances to support expanding operational engagements," it noted.
According to the Ministry of Defence, "India and Oman share a strategic partnership founded on robust political, defence, economic, and cultural ties. Key strategic areas include economic cooperation and energy security through oil and gas trade, as well as mutual interests in regional stability, counter-terrorism, and maritime security."