Prime Minister celebrates centuries of seafaring trust in Muscat summit.

Prime Minister NarendraModi’s recent diplomatic mission reached a high point in Oman, where he was conferred with the "First Class of the Order of Oman." This highest civilian honour serves as a powerful testament to the flourishing friendship and mutual trust between the two nations. Expressing his gratitude, the Prime Minister dedicated this recognition to the citizens of India and the generations of seafarers who built the foundation of this relationship.

Reviving Ancient Maritime Links

During the PM Modi Oman Visit, the Prime Minister drew parallels between modern diplomacy and ancient history. He highlighted how the Arabian Sea has functioned as a bridge for centuries, connecting Indian traders with the Sultanate. For an audience in Odisha, this resonates deeply with the state’s own maritime legacy and the history of the Sadhabas who once navigated similar trade routes. PM Modi specifically paid tribute to the ancestors who travelled from Mandvi to Muscat, creating a legacy of cultural exchange that continues to thrive today.

Economic Milestone: The CEPA Agreement

A major highlight of the visit was the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). This free trade deal is expected to transform India-Oman relations by:

• Expanding Market Access: Simplifying trade for businesses on both sides.
• Job Creation: Generating new employment opportunities through increased investment.
• Diversification: Opening doors in technology, energy, agriculture, and defense.

A Successful Three-Nation Tour

The stop in Muscat marked the final leg of a productive three-nation tour. Before arriving in Oman, the Prime Minister visited Jordan and Ethiopia. In Ethiopia, he was also awarded the "Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia," and bilateral ties were elevated to a strategic partnership.

The warmth of the reception in Muscat was unmistakable. From the formal welcome by Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to the "namaste" farewell from the Deputy Prime Minister, the visit underscored a new era of cooperation. With the new trade reforms and strategic agreements in place, the bond between India and Oman is set to become even more robust, benefiting the large Indian diaspora and businesses alike.