Muscat/New Delhi, 18 December (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his two-day official visit to the Sultanate of Oman today, reaffirming India’s deep-rooted relationship with the Gulf nation and ushering in a new phase of economic, strategic, and socio-cultural cooperation. The visit, held at the invitation of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, coincides with the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Oman — a partnership now elevated to greater strategic and developmental heights.
This momentous visit witnessed the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), and detailed consultations that established a roadmap for strengthening bilateral cooperation across diverse sectors including trade, energy, higher education, agriculture, technology, and maritime security.
Strengthening Ties Through Shared Vision
Prime Minister Modi was received with ceremonial honours by His Highness Sayyid Shihab bin Tarik, Deputy Prime Minister for Defence Affairs, and later by Sultan Haitham bin Tarik at Al Baraka Palace. Both leaders held comprehensive discussions reflecting the warmth, trust, and timeless cultural ties that characterize India–Oman relations.
The two sides adopted a Joint Vision Document on Maritime Cooperation, emphasizing regional maritime security, blue economy collaboration, and sustainable use of ocean resources. The document symbolizes shared aspirations for stability, innovation, and inclusive development in the Indian Ocean region.
The leaders commended one another’s national development goals — Oman’s Vision 2040 and India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 — identifying strong synergies in economic diversification, technological advancement, and sustainable growth.
India–Oman Business Forum: A Call to Build the Future Together
Addressing the India–Oman Business Forum in Muscat, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the centuries-old maritime and commercial exchanges that connect the two nations “from Mandvi to Muscat.” Recalling the deep civilizational roots of this maritime friendship, he noted that the bond of trust built over generations now forms the foundation of a dynamic modern partnership.
Speaking before business leaders from both countries and dignitaries including Oman’s Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion H.E. Qais Al Youssef, and India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, the Prime Minister unveiled a transformative vision for bilateral trade and economic integration under the newly signed CEPA.
He described CEPA as “a blueprint for a shared future,” capable of infusing new energy and confidence into India–Oman trade ties. The Agreement will reduce trade barriers, promote investor-friendly policies, and unlock new opportunities for industries ranging from renewable energy and agri-tech to manufacturing and logistics.
Elaborating on India’s robust economic growth, the Prime Minister reiterated that India is advancing swiftly towards becoming the world’s third-largest economy, with sustained growth surpassing 8% even amid global economic uncertainty. He attributed this success to 11 years of structural reforms, including GST, Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, corporate tax reforms, and labour reforms, which together transformed India’s economic DNA and bolstered investor confidence.
Highlighting India’s Digital Public Infrastructure and the efficiency it brings to governance and commerce, Modi said that Digital India is not merely a governmental programme but the “world’s largest inclusion revolution.”
He invited Omani investors to partner with India in building world-class ecosystems in green energy, green hydrogen, food security, fintech, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity, proposing initiatives like the India–Oman Agri Innovation Hub and the India–Oman Innovation Bridge to connect over 200 start-ups over the next two years.
“These are not merely ideas,” the Prime Minister stated emphatically. “They are invitations — to invest, to innovate, and to build the future together.”
Address to the Indian Community: Pride, Progress, and Partnership
In his address to members of the Indian community at a grand gathering in Muscat, attended by over 700 students from Indian schools in Oman, Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude for the affection and contributions of the Indian diaspora.He lauded their role in strengthening India–Oman ties, calling them the “living bridge” between the two nations.
The Prime Minister congratulated Indian schools in Oman on completing 50 years, commending their role in nurturing cultural unity and educational excellence abroad.Reflecting on India’s global achievements, he cited transformative progress in space exploration, digital payments (with UPI accounting for nearly 50% of global digital transactions), and technological Innovation.
He invited students to participate in ISRO’s YUVIKA programme, underscoring India’s commitment to nurturing young scientific minds worldwide.He also thanked His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik for his continued support to the Indian community and reaffirmed India’s unwavering dedication to the safety and welfare of its diaspora.
Key Agreements and Outcomes of the Visit
The visit yielded a series of landmark outcomes aimed at boosting bilateral engagement and advancing shared prosperity:
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) – to strengthen trade and investment, enhance job creation, and boost mutual economic growth.
MoU on Maritime Heritage and Museums – to promote collaborative research, exhibitions, and preservation of shared maritime history.
MoU on Agriculture and Allied Sectors – focusing on agricultural science, animal husbandry, fisheries, and horticulture innovation.
MoU on Higher Education – to facilitate faculty and student exchanges, research collaboration, and knowledge sharing.
Executive Programme on Millet Cultivation and Agri-Food Innovation – leveraging India’s expertise in millet research and Oman’s favourable agro-climatic conditions.
Adoption of Joint Vision Document on Maritime Cooperation – reinforcing coordination in maritime security, sustainable ocean use, and blue economy initiatives.
MoU between the Oman Chamber of Commerce & Industry (OCCI) and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) – to strengthen corporate engagement and bilateral business partnerships.
The two countries also acknowledged discussions on bilateral trade in local currencies, ongoing deliberations on a Bilateral Investment Treaty, and expanding cooperation in energy, particularly green ammonia, green hydrogen, and renewable energy projects.
Both leaders strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, reaffirming that no justification can ever exist for such acts. They also reviewed the humanitarian situation in Gaza and called for restoring peace through dialogue and diplomacy, supporting the Gaza Peace Plan and a sovereign, independent State of Palestine.
A Timeless Maritime Friendship Renewed
Prime Minister Modi’s visit has not only cemented a forward-looking economic alliance but also rejuvenated a centuries-old maritime bond rooted in trust, culture, and shared aspirations. The outcomes of the trip — from CEPA to joint heritage collaborations — reflect a deep, strategic convergence anchored in mutual respect and growth.
As PM Modi concluded his engagements in Muscat, he extended an invitation to His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to visit India at a mutually convenient time, reaffirming India and Oman’s commitment to shape a 21st-century partnership of peace, prosperity, and progress.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
