Prime Minister Narendra Modi is poised for a significant visit to Oman, a nation renowned for its steadfast support of India, especially as its only Muslim ally since 1971. This trip is anticipated to solidify and expand the strategic cooperation that has been a hallmark of the India-Oman relationship for over seven decades. Oman’s leadership has consistently advocated for India on global stages, particularly on critical issues like terrorism, cementing its unique position as a trusted partner.
The impending visit by PM Modi is expected to draw attention from Pakistan, underscoring the geopolitical importance of this bilateral engagement. The robust and growing cooperation between India and Oman spans key sectors including defense, trade, and energy, marking it as one of the most enduring relationships in the Gulf region. This visit also coincides with the important milestone of celebrating 70 years of diplomatic relations.
This engagement follows the recent state visit of Oman’s ruler, Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, to India, which aimed to boost bilateral ties. A notable aspect of Oman’s trust is its decision to grant the Indian Navy unprecedented access to the Duqm port. This strategic move significantly enhances India’s maritime capabilities and logistical support in the Indian Ocean, reinforcing its naval presence in a vital area for international commerce. Oman’s proactive stance in defense cooperation is evident through joint exercises with all three arms of the Indian military.
Oman’s consistent diplomatic backing, including within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation on counter-terrorism, highlights the strength of this alliance. The presence of a well-integrated Indian diaspora in Oman further strengthens these bonds. Economically, the visit is expected to accelerate discussions and potential finalization of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), providing a structured environment for bilateral trade, which has already seen substantial growth, reaching USD 10.61 billion in 2024-25. Future investments and energy cooperation are also key areas for development.