Modi Awarded the Prestigious Order of Oman
Prime Minister Modi has been conferred the Order of Oman, the Sultanate’s second-highest civilian honour. The award was presented by Sultan Haitham bin Tarik during Modi’s official visit to Muscat. This recognition highlights the deep-rooted friendship between India and Oman and acknowledges Modi’s role in strengthening bilateral relations.
The Order of Oman is reserved for global leaders who make outstanding contributions to Oman’s diplomatic and economic partnerships. By honouring Modi, Oman reaffirmed India’s importance as a long-term strategic partner in the Gulf region.
Historic Meeting Between Modi and Sultan Haitham
Modi met Sultan Haitham bin Tarik for a comprehensive bilateral discussion covering trade, investment, energy cooperation, and regional security. The leaders reviewed existing partnerships and explored new avenues for collaboration.
During the meeting, Modi emphasized the civilizational ties between India and Oman. He noted that cultural exchanges, people-to-people connections, and mutual trust have formed the foundation of the relationship for centuries.
The Sultan praised India’s growing global influence and acknowledged Modi’s leadership in driving economic reforms and innovation.
India and Oman Sign Landmark CEPA Agreement
A major outcome of Modi’s visit was the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, commonly known as CEPA. Negotiations for the agreement began in November 2023 and concluded successfully during this visit.
Modi described CEPA as a transformative step that will shape India-Oman relations for decades. He called it a blueprint for a shared future, designed to unlock trade potential and boost investor confidence.
The agreement is expected to significantly reduce tariffs, simplify regulations, and improve market access for businesses in both countries.
Key Sectors to Benefit From CEPA
The CEPA agreement signed under Modi’s leadership will directly benefit several Indian industries. Sectors expected to see immediate gains include textiles, footwear, automobiles, gems and jewellery, renewable energy, and auto components.
Indian exporters will gain easier access to Omani markets, while Omani investors will find new opportunities in India’s manufacturing and infrastructure sectors. Modi highlighted that the agreement supports India’s vision of becoming a global manufacturing hub.
Renewable energy cooperation is another major focus. Both nations plan to collaborate on green hydrogen, solar power, and sustainable development projects.
Modi Addresses India-Oman Business Summit
In Muscat, Modi addressed the India-Oman Business Summit, where he praised the resilience and trust between the two economies. He encouraged startups and established businesses to invest in India and explore joint ventures with Omani partners.
Modi urged entrepreneurs to focus on innovation, technology, and sustainable growth. He assured investors that India offers policy stability, a large consumer base, and a strong digital ecosystem.
Business leaders welcomed Modi’s remarks, noting that CEPA would reduce barriers and create long-term commercial opportunities.
Vision for the 21st Century Partnership
While speaking at the summit, Modi said that CEPA would bring new energy and confidence to bilateral relations in the 21st century. He emphasized that trade agreements are not just economic tools but instruments of trust and shared progress.
According to Modi, the agreement will boost trade volumes, strengthen supply chains, and create employment in both countries. He added that India and Oman can work together to address global challenges through economic cooperation.
Modi’s Message to the Indian Diaspora
Modi also addressed the Indian diaspora in Oman, expressing gratitude for their contribution to the host country’s development. He praised overseas Indians for respecting local culture while promoting Indian values abroad.
Modi said that no matter how times change, India’s friendship with Oman will remain strong. His remarks resonated deeply with the Indian community, many of whom have lived in Oman for generations.
The diaspora event highlighted the people-to-people ties that continue to anchor bilateral relations.
Warm Welcome and Diplomatic Courtesy
Modi arrived in Muscat on Wednesday evening, where he was received by Oman’s Deputy Prime Minister for Defence Affairs, Sayyid Shihab bin Tarik Al Said. The ceremonial welcome reflected the importance Oman places on its relationship with India.
Later, a formal dinner was hosted in honour of Modi, providing an opportunity for informal discussions and cultural exchange. Such gestures reinforced the warmth and mutual respect between the two nations.
Strategic Importance of India-Oman Relations
India and Oman share a strategic location advantage, with Oman situated at the crossroads of major global trade routes. Modi has consistently emphasized maritime security and regional stability as shared priorities.
The partnership also includes defence cooperation, joint military exercises, and intelligence sharing. Under Modi’s leadership, India has strengthened ties with Gulf countries, positioning itself as a reliable partner in West Asia.
Looking Ahead After Modi’s Visit
Modi’s visit to Oman marks a significant milestone in bilateral relations. The Order of Oman honour and the CEPA agreement together symbolize political trust and economic ambition.
As CEPA is implemented, businesses in both countries are expected to benefit from increased trade, investment flows, and innovation. Modi’s vision of long-term partnership sets a clear direction for future cooperation.
The visit reaffirmed that India and Oman are not just trade partners but trusted friends with a shared vision for prosperity and stability.