Both leaders affirmed their commitment to strengthening ties against a backdrop of evolving regional and global dynamics.
PM Modi Receives Oman’s Prestigious National Honour, Strengthening Historic Ties
On Thursday, PM Narendra Modi was conferred the First Class of the Order of Oman during a ceremony in Muscat. It is the Sultanate’s national honour, representing a significant milestone in bilateral ties between India and Oman. The award places PM Modi alongside global figures such as Queen Elizabeth II, Nelson Mandela, Queen Maxima and King Abdullah II of Jordan, all of whom have previously received this prestigious distinction.
The honour was bestowed by Sultan Haitham bin Tarik. It is the 29th international accolade conferred on Mr Modi, reinforcing his global leadership profile. Mr Modi arrived in Oman on Wednesday as part of the final leg of his three-nation diplomatic tour, which included Jordan and Ethiopia.
Sultan Haitham welcomed the Prime Minister during the formal investiture at Al Baraka Palace and expressed appreciation for his role in strengthening India–Oman relations. Both leaders engaged in bilateral talks that culminated in the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Randhir Jaiswal, spokesman of the Ministry of External Affairs, said the pact is expected to “increase trade, boost investment, catalyse economic diversification, unlock opportunities across all major sectors, enhance growth and generate employment” for both countries.
The discussions also covered major areas of cooperation, including defence and security, energy, agriculture, technology, culture and people-to-people relations, reflecting the wide-ranging India–Oman strategic partnership. Both leaders affirmed their commitment to strengthening ties against a backdrop of evolving regional and global dynamics.
PM Modi’s visit coincides with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Oman, highlighting a long history of maritime trade, cultural exchanges and strategic cooperation. The CEPA and the national honour are being viewed as symbols of a deepening partnership that is set to deliver broader economic and geopolitical benefits in the years ahead.
Source: Hindustan Times
