19-December-2023-Editorial

PM MODI, OMAN’S SULTAN ADOPT VISION DOCUMENT, DISCUSS GAZA

India and Oman have recently adopted the “India Oman Joint Vision Partnership For the Future,” signifying enhanced bilateral cooperation. The Vision Document outlines collaboration in key sectors, emphasizing shared interests and objectives.

Bilateral Meet Highlights:

• Bilateral Agreements: Agreements in information technology, combating financial crimes, culture, and the establishment of a Hindi chair were signed.
• CEPA Discussions: Progress on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to boost economic ties.
• Oman-India Investment Fund: Announcement of the third tranche of the Oman-India investment fund worth USD 300 million.
• Digital Payments and Trade: Exploring the use of India’s UPI for digital payments in collaboration with Omani platforms. Considering the possibility of conducting trade in Rupees.
• Regional and International Issues: Exchange of views on regional matters, including the Hamas-Israel conflict. Advocacy for a two-state solution to address the Palestine issue.

India-Oman Relations:

• Strong historical ties based on geographical, cultural, and maritime connections.
• Oman’s strategic role in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and other international forums.

Defense Relations:

• Joint Military Cooperation Committee (JMCC) and regular bilateral exercises.
• Oman’s active participation in the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS).
• Access to the Port of Duqm for military use and logistical support.

Economic & Commercial Ties:

• Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) and Joint Business Council (JBC) oversee economic cooperation.
• India among Oman’s top trading partners with significant investments.

Indian Community:

• About 6.2 lakh Indians in Oman, contributing to the workforce and societal fabric.

Oman’s Strategic Significance for India:

Geopolitical Importance:

• Oman’s location at the gateway of the Strait of Hormuz, crucial for India’s oil imports.
• Defense cooperation as a key element of the strategic partnership.

Maritime Access:

• Access to the Port of Duqm strengthens India’s maritime strategy in the Indian Ocean region.
• Strategic location in proximity to Chabahar port in Iran and other key maritime assets.

Key Facts About Oman:

Geography:

• Situated on the Arabian Peninsula, bordered by the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, and Persian Gulf.
• Diverse geography includes deserts, seasonal riverbeds (wadis), and the highest mountain, Jebel Shams.

International Relations:

• Bordering countries include the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen.

Strategic Initiatives:

• Oman’s Duqm Port and its industrial city present opportunities for India’s strategic engagement.
• Collaboration to enhance strategic depth in the Western and Southern parts of the Indian Ocean.

Conclusion:

India-Oman relations, fortified by historical, economic, and strategic links, mark a significant partnership. The Joint Vision Document reinforces commitment and outlines the diverse areas of collaboration, from economic ties and defense cooperation to regional issue discussions. The Duqm Port’s potential and Oman’s pivotal role in the region make it imperative for India to leverage opportunities and strengthen its Indo-Pacific vision.