Muscat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Oman Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik in December held extensive discussions in Muscat on adding greater depth to the strategic partnership between both countries.

The two leaders welcomed the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), terming it a “milestone” in bilateral ties, and expressed confidence that it would strengthen the strategic partnership. They also discussed issues of regional and global interest.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and other senior officials attended the meeting held at the Al Baraka Palace.

“Celebrating 70 years of India-Oman Diplomatic ties: An all-encompassing relationship, united by maritime heritage and shared destiny! PM Narendra Modi met today His Majesty Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik in Muscat, Oman,” the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson posted on X.

The spokesperson added that the leaders noted the completion of 70 years of diplomatic relations as a landmark in the bilateral partnership and explored ways to add greater depth to the India-Oman Strategic Partnership, covering defence, security, trade and investment, energy, agriculture, technology, new and emerging areas, culture and people-to-people ties.

Business, diplomacy and a warm welcome

PM Modi addressed the Indian community at the ‘Maitri Parv’ event in Muscat and also spoke at the India-Oman Business Forum.

“At the Business Forum in Muscat this morning (October 18), which was attended by industry representatives from India as well as Oman, highlighted the rich potential to deepen economic linkages. Also invited businesses from Oman to invest and innovate in India,” PM Modi posted on X.

A day earlier, the Prime Minister arrived in Muscat for the third and final leg of his three-nation visit. He was warmly received at the airport by Oman’s Deputy Prime Minister for Defence Affairs Sayyid Shihab bin Tarik Al Said and was accorded a Guard of Honour as part of the ceremonial welcome.