Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Oman Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik on Thursday held extensive discussions in Muscat on strengthening and adding greater depth to the India–Oman strategic partnership.
The bilateral meeting took place at the Al Baraka Palace and was attended by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and other senior officials.
The two leaders welcomed the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), terming it a milestone in bilateral relations. They expressed confidence that the agreement would significantly strengthen the strategic partnership by enhancing trade, investment, and economic cooperation between the two countries.
Review of Bilateral Cooperation
During the discussions, PM Modi and Sultan Haitham exchanged views on a wide range of issues, including defence and security, trade and investment, energy, agriculture, technology, new and emerging sectors, culture, and people-to-people ties.
They also discussed regional and global developments of mutual interest, reflecting the close coordination and shared perspectives between India and Oman.
Highlighting the significance of the meeting, the Ministry of External Affairs said that the completion of 70 years of diplomatic relations between India and Oman marked a major milestone in the bilateral partnership.
The two leaders explored ways to further expand cooperation across traditional and emerging areas, building on the strong foundation of historical ties and mutual trust.
Celebrating 70 years India-Oman Diplomatic ties : An all-encompassing relationship, united by maritime heritage and shared destiny!
PM @narendramodi met today His Majesty Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik in Muscat, Oman. Both leaders noted that the completion of 70 years of diplomatic… pic.twitter.com/neXUdlBJQe
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) December 18, 2025
Earlier in the day, PM Modi addressed the Indian community at the ‘Maitri Parv’ event in Muscat, reaffirming India’s commitment to its diaspora. He also spoke at the India–Oman Business Forum, where industry representatives from both countries participated.
At the forum, the Prime Minister highlighted the vast potential to deepen economic linkages and invited Omani businesses to invest and innovate in India. He emphasised that CEPA would open new opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs, and investors in both countries.
Ceremonial Welcome and Community Connect
PM Modi arrived in Muscat on Wednesday 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.
This is PM Modi’s second visit to Oman, following his earlier visit in February 2018, underlining the growing momentum in bilateral ties. He also received an enthusiastic welcome from members of the Indian community in Muscat, with hundreds of people greeting him with Indian flags and patriotic slogans.
The visit assumes special importance as it coincides with the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Oman. It also follows Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik’s state visit to India in December 2023, reflecting sustained high-level political engagement.
India and Oman share a comprehensive strategic partnership, characterised by robust cooperation across diverse sectors.
Oman remains a key partner for India in the Gulf region, particularly in energy security, maritime cooperation, and regional stability.
