‘Modi’s visit to cement India-Oman relations’

PM Modi will be meeting with eminent Omani and Indian businessmen during his trip

MUSCAT: India’s ambassador to Oman has said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit holds significance for the country and for the strong and ever-evolving bilateral ties between the two nations.

On the two-day visit, which is a part of the four-day Gulf tour of Palestine, Abu Dhabi and Oman, Modi will be addressing the Indian diaspora and meeting with eminent Omani and Indian businessmen.

“He will be addressing the Indian community and meeting with business heads of Oman, including heads of public authorities who deal with economic and commercial relations,” Pandey said. He added: “The business event is being organised by the Ministry of Commerce and industry in collaboration with the embassy.”

Speaking about Oman and India’s strong and ever-evolving bilateral ties, he said: “Oman has always been a trusted partner of India in the Gulf region. The importance given to Oman is reflected in the fact that prime ministers have been visiting us regularly. Starting with PM Rajiv Gandhi, PM Narsimha Rao, PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee, PM Dr Manmohan Singh, and now PM Modi.”

Pandey further highlighted the maritime relations between the two countries and their importance in trade and investment between the two countries.

“We always look at countries bordering us through our land periphery. But, if we set aside the mindset and look at countries that border India through the Indian Ocean, then all Gulf countries are our neighbours,” he explained.

He further said: “The Gulf is important for India for trade and investment. The Gulf region as a whole is the largest trade partner of India and investment has been taking place both ways.”

Pandey also cited an example of how Oman supports India in its efforts in the Gulf of Aden.

“One very important facet is the assistance that Oman provides for Indian missions in the Gulf of Aden. India is a part of international efforts to counter piracy in the Gulf of Aden. Our naval forces are deployed there. Our navy ships visit Salalah port and Duqm for regular tours for operational turnaround,” he said.

While Oman has always been at the forefront of counter-terrorism efforts, not only in the region but also globally, India too has been making remarkable progress. “India has been playing a very important role in global counter-terrorism efforts. Oman has been a key player both locally and globally in counter-terrorism efforts,” he said.