Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in crucial talks with Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman during the latter’s state visit to India. Sultan Haitham’s trip marked his first visit to India as the leader of Oman, reinforcing the bilateral ties between the two nations.
The Ministry of External Affairs shared insights into the discussions, stating, “PM @narendramodi held productive discussions with His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman. The leaders reviewed bilateral relationships spanning political, security, defense, trade, economics, culture, and people-to-people connections. They also exchanged perspectives on regional and international matters.”
Transforming 🇮🇳-🇴🇲 ties!
PM @narendramodi held productive discussions with His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman.
The leaders reviewed bilateral relationship covering the areas of political, security, defence, trade, economic, cultural and people to people ties. They… pic.twitter.com/7t4RMOy2ul
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) December 16, 2023
Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra elaborated further on the discussions, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the talks. He noted that the talks encompassed various areas, including maritime cooperation, shared concerns regarding terrorism, green energy, security collaboration, people-to-people relations, and even cricket diplomacy. Sultan Haitham commended PM Modi for the successful G20 leadership.
Notably, during the visit, an essential milestone was achieved in terms of economic cooperation between India and Oman with the announcement of the third tranche of the Oman-India Joint Investment Fund. This joint venture between the State Bank of India and the Oman Investment Authority seeks to strengthen economic ties by directing investments into India’s fastest-growing sectors.
Foreign Secretary Kwatra emphasized the significance of this fund, revealing that it is valued at $300 million, or approximately 2,500 crores. The initial two tranches of the fund, valued at $100 million and $200 million, respectively, laid the groundwork for a robust economic partnership.
Sultan Haitham’s state visit commenced with a ceremonial welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, where he was received by President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier today. During his maiden India visit, the Omani leader also met Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar.
