Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs V. Muraleedharan has successfully concluded his third official visit to the Sultanate of Oman.
During this two-day visit, the Minister actively engaged in a series of strategic meetings and cultural exchanges, reinforcing the diplomatic and cultural ties between India and Oman.
Economic Relations and Cultural Bonds
With a focus on strengthening economic cooperation and renewing cultural bonds, Minister Muraleedharan held a series of meetings with distinguished Omani leaders.
In a bilateral meeting with Said Al Saqri, Oman’s Minister of Economy, the two ministers explored avenues of cooperation and dove into crucial aspects of India-Oman economic relations.
Next, another vital meeting was held between MoS MEA and Mahad bin Said Baowain, Oman’s Minister of Labour on labor relations and skill development programs aimed at improving the well-being of Indian workers in Oman.
Diplomacy and Cultural Exchange
Further, during the visit, Minister Muraleedharan held a luncheon meeting with Sheikh Khalifa Al-Harthy, the Undersecretary for Political Affairs in Oman’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Their discussions revolved around bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest, reaffirming the commitment to constructive diplomatic relations.
Throughout his meetings, the Minister expressed deep appreciation to Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and the Government of Oman for their continuous efforts in ensuring the well-being of the vibrant Indian community residing in Oman.
Promoting Cultural Exchange and History
A significant highlight of the visit was the inauguration of the “India on Canvas: Masterpieces of Modern Indian Painting” exhibition at the National Museum of Oman. The exhibition featured a curated collection of 20 works of art from India’s National Gallery of Modern Art. During the visit, the Minister emphasized that this exhibition marks a milestone collaboration that deepens cultural bonds between India and Oman.
Additionally, the Minister also inaugurated a landmark lecture series titled “From Mandvi to Muscat: Indian Community and the Shared History of India and Oman.” Organized by the Embassy of India in collaboration with the Oman Historical Association and the National Museum of Oman, the series sheds light on the history of the Indian community in Oman and its significant contributions to India-Oman relations.
Connecting with the Indian Diaspora
During his visit, Minister Muraleedharan also interacted with various segments of the Indian diaspora in Oman, including healthcare professionals, social workers, blue-collar workers, and members of the Indian Social Club. He emphasized that the Indian community in Oman is an integral part of India’s global family.
