Modi Receives Order of Oman, Signs Historic CEPA in Muscat
Modi Receives Order of Oman, Signs Historic CEPA in Muscat
PM Modi receives Oman’s highest honour and seals a landmark trade pact, signaling stronger India-Oman ties.
In Muscat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded the Order of Oman, the sultanate’s highest civilian honour, by Sultan Haitham bin Tarik during a two-day visit. The award marks Modi’s 29th global honour and comes as India and Oman move to deepen their strategic partnership.
At the same time, the two countries formalised a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), a milestone aimed at boosting trade, investment and economic diversification. The deal aligns with the 70th anniversary of India-Oman diplomatic relations and follows a high-level push to expand cooperation across energy, defence and culture, with a dedicated India-Oman Business Summit accompanying the talks.
Modi addressed the Indian community in Muscat at the Maitiri Parv, underscoring that India and Oman are connected not just by geography but by generations. He also highlighted UNESCO’s decision to inscribe the Deepavali festival on the List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, calling it global recognition of the light and message of hope and amity that the festival embodies.
The prime minister reiterated India’s 21st-century approach of bold, time-bound decisions and ambitious goals, urging the diaspora to act as a bridge between the two nations. He noted that the CEPA would unlock opportunities across major sectors and strengthen ties in energy, investment and cultural exchange.
Observers view the visit as a pivotal moment for India’s Gulf strategy, with Oman positioned as a key gateway for energy security and regional stability, further consolidating bilateral relations in a rapidly changing regional landscape.
