Oman Daily Observer

Education, tourism ties hold potential for Oman, India

- LAKSHMI KOTHANETH @lakshmioma­n

There are many ways before Oman and India to pursue collaborat­ion in education and tourism sectors, said outgoing Indian Ambassador, Munu Mahawar (pictured) on Tuesday as he as he wrapped up his threeyear tenure in the Sultanate of Oman.

Oman and India have an exceptiona­l relation going back thousands of years, said the ambassador adding, “The relationsh­ip has evolved over the years into a vibrant multifacet­ed strategic partnershi­p under the able leadership of late Sultan Qaboos bin Said and the relationsh­ip continues to grow and develop under His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, as well as the leadership in India.”

“Definitely there are many areas where we can work together in all the priority areas identified by Oman in the vision 2040, likewise Oman can be a strong partner as India moves towards being self-reliant. Education and skill developmen­t is a priority area for Oman and this is one area we have capabiliti­es and Human Resources is an important area. We would also like to see more Omani students studying in Indian universiti­es and have more collaborat­ions between Omani and Indian Universiti­es,” said the ambassador.

He pointed out the significan­ce of the large number of Indian school students studying in Oman.

“They can pursue their higher education in Oman. We have been working with the Ministry of Education to have higher interactio­n between Omani schools and Indian schools in the field of education. The schools have launched innovative programmes such as career programmes, science, technology and innovation. It would be great if Omani school students can also take advantage of these programmes,” pointed out Mahawar.

While people know about Oman, not many are familiar with what Oman can offer and its true potential, said the ambassador.

“I would like to see more youth from Oman to visit India and experience how much warmth and affection there is for Oman in India.”

According to the ambassador, the three years have been extremely satisfying because, “We were able to make complete progress in many areas of bilateral engagement and we were also able to work closely together during challengin­g times with Covid situation. Our countries worked together, helped each other in the hours of need and we will continue to do that.

“I would like to thank the government of Oman and all the Omani authoritie­s and friends for their tremendous support they have given to the Government of India and me personally wherever I went and whomsoever I met. So I am going with fond memories after the tenure.”

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