Muscat, December 18 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day state visit to Oman concluded with the signing of several key agreements and initiatives aimed at strengthening bilateral ties, with a focus on economic, agricultural, and maritime cooperation.
According to a list of outcomes issued by the Ministry of External Affairs, India and Oman signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement to deepen economic and commercial integration, reduce trade barriers, and create a stable framework to expand trade, unlock opportunities across major sectors, enhance economic growth, generate employment, and boost investment flows.
In their joint statement, both sides welcomed the signing of the agreement, describing it as an important milestone in bilateral economic relations. The leaders noted that the CEPA would be mutually beneficial and encouraged the private sectors of both countries to take advantage of the new framework. They agreed that the agreement would increase trade by reducing barriers and providing stability for long-term economic cooperation.
A memorandum of understanding in the field of Maritime Heritage and Museums was also signed to establish collaborative partnerships supporting maritime museums, including the National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal. The MoU will facilitate the exchange of artifacts and expertise, joint exhibitions, research, and capacity-building efforts to promote shared maritime heritage, boost tourism, and strengthen cultural ties.
In addition, the two countries adopted a Joint Vision Document on Maritime Cooperation, reflecting their shared commitment to regional maritime security, the blue economy, and the sustainable use of ocean resources.
In the field of agriculture and allied sectors, both sides agreed on a framework for cooperation covering agriculture, animal husbandry, and fisheries. The agreement focuses on advancements in agricultural science and technology, horticulture development, integrated farming systems, and micro-irrigation.
The joint statement noted that both countries reaffirmed their commitment to agricultural cooperation and agreed to strengthen collaboration in millet cultivation through training and scientific exchange. The visit also saw the launch of an executive program for cooperation in millet cultivation and agri-food innovation, leveraging India’s scientific expertise and Oman’s favorable agro-climatic conditions.
An MoU in higher education was also signed to facilitate the exchange of faculty members, researchers, and scholars, while promoting joint research, particularly applied research, in areas of mutual interest to support human and socio-economic development. Both sides also noted ongoing capacity-building initiatives under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation program.
Prime Minister Modi was in Oman from December 17 to December 18 as part of the third leg of his three-nation tour. The visit was marked by a significant diplomatic moment, with Modi being conferred the First Class of the Order of Oman, the Sultanate’s national honor, making it the 29th international civilian award he has received.
The Prime Minister arrived in Oman following engagements in Jordan and Ethiopia.
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