India and Oman significantly strengthened their bilateral relationship during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit to the Sultanate from December 17 to 18, marked by the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and the adoption of a Joint Vision Document on Maritime Cooperation.
Prime Minister Modi visited Oman at the invitation of Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and was accorded a ceremonial welcome. The two leaders held extensive talks at Al Baraka Palace on December 18. The visit coincided with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries and followed the Sultan of Oman’s state visit to India in December 2023, adding symbolic importance to the engagement.
Both sides reviewed the progress of the Joint Vision Document adopted in 2023 and expressed satisfaction over the expanding scope of cooperation across trade and investment, defence and security, energy, technology, education, space, agriculture, culture and people-to-people ties. The leaders noted that relations between the two maritime neighbours have evolved into a comprehensive strategic partnership.
Trade and economic cooperation emerged as a central focus. The CEPA was described as a landmark agreement that would reduce trade barriers, stimulate economic growth, generate employment and enhance investment flows. Opportunities to expand trade in sectors such as textiles, automobiles, chemicals, fertilisers and industrial equipment were highlighted. Both leaders encouraged businesses to take full advantage of the agreement.
Investment cooperation was also discussed, with emphasis on infrastructure, manufacturing, logistics, food security, hospitality and technology. The positive role of the Oman-India Joint Investment Fund was acknowledged, along with progress on the Bilateral Investment Treaty and discussions on facilitating trade in local currencies.
In the energy sector, India and Oman agreed to deepen collaboration in conventional energy as well as renewables, including green hydrogen and green ammonia. Defence and maritime cooperation were reinforced through the adoption of a Joint Vision Document focusing on maritime security, the blue economy and sustainable ocean resources.
Several MoUs were signed in agriculture, higher education, maritime heritage, museums and industry collaboration. The leaders also praised strong people-to-people ties, particularly the contribution of the 6.75 lakh-strong Indian community in Oman.
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