Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Visit to Oman Strengthens India–Oman Strategic Partnership.
New Delhi:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the Sultanate of Oman marked a significant step forward in deepening the multifaceted and historic ties between India and Oman. The visit resulted in a series of important agreements and joint initiatives aimed at strengthening cooperation in economic, maritime, agricultural, educational and cultural sectors, reflecting the shared vision of both nations for a future-oriented partnership.
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)
A major highlight of the visit was the understanding reached on advancing a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and Oman. The proposed agreement aims to strengthen and further develop closer economic and commercial integration between the two countries. By reducing trade barriers and establishing a stable and transparent framework for trade and investment, CEPA is expected to significantly increase bilateral trade. It will unlock opportunities across key sectors of the economy, stimulate economic growth, generate employment, and boost investment flows between India and Oman.
MoU on Maritime Heritage and Museums
During the visit, an MoU was signed in the field of Maritime Heritage and Museums. The agreement seeks to establish a collaborative partnership to support maritime museums, including India’s National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal. Cooperation under this MoU will include the exchange of artefacts and professional expertise, organization of joint exhibitions, collaborative research, and capacity-building programmes. This initiative will help promote the shared maritime heritage of India and Oman, boost tourism, and further strengthen cultural ties between the two countries.
MoU on Agriculture and Allied Sectors
India and Oman also signed an umbrella MoU in the field of agriculture and allied sectors, covering animal husbandry and fisheries. The agreement provides a framework for cooperation in agricultural science and technology, development of horticulture, integrated farming systems, and micro-irrigation. The collaboration aims to enhance agricultural productivity, sustainability, and innovation, contributing to food security and rural development in both nations.
MoU on Higher Education
An MoU in the field of higher education was concluded to facilitate the exchange of faculty members, researchers and scholars between the two countries. The agreement emphasizes joint research initiatives, particularly applied research in areas of mutual interest. This cooperation is expected to generate new knowledge, foster innovation, and support human resource development aligned with the socio-economic goals of both India and Oman.
Executive Programme on Millet Cultivation and Agri-Food Innovation
An Executive Programme was adopted to promote cooperation in millet cultivation and agri-food innovation. Leveraging India’s scientific expertise and Oman’s favourable agro-climatic conditions, the programme aims to advance millet production, research and promotion. This initiative highlights the shared commitment of both countries to sustainable agriculture, climate-resilient crops, and nutritional security.
Joint Vision Document on Maritime Cooperation
The visit also saw the adoption of a Joint Vision Document on Maritime Cooperation. The document outlines a shared approach to strengthening cooperation in regional maritime security, promotion of the blue economy, and the sustainable use of ocean resources. It reflects the growing convergence of interests between India and Oman in ensuring maritime safety, stability and sustainable development in the region.
Overall, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Oman reaffirmed the deep-rooted friendship between the two countries and laid a strong foundation for expanding cooperation across diverse sectors, paving the way for enhanced strategic, economic and people-to-people ties in the years ahead.
