Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Muscat, Oman, on December 17, 2025, for a two-day official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and discussing a comprehensive trade agreement between India and Oman. This visit marks a significant milestone in the 70-year diplomatic relationship between the two nations, which has been characterized by robust economic and cultural exchanges.
Upon his arrival, Modi was greeted by Oman’s Deputy Prime Minister for Defense Affairs, Sayyid Shihab bin Tariq Al Said, and other senior officials. The visit is expected to focus on the India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which aims to enhance trade and investment flows between the two countries. The CEPA has been in discussions for several months, with both sides expressing optimism about its potential to boost economic cooperation.
India and Oman share a long-standing relationship that dates back centuries, rooted in trade and cultural exchanges. The two countries have collaborated in various sectors, including energy, infrastructure, and defense. In recent years, Oman has emerged as a key partner for India in the Gulf region, with Indian expatriates constituting a significant portion of the Omani population. Approximately 800,000 Indians reside in Oman, contributing to the local economy and fostering people-to-people connections.
The proposed CEPA is expected to cover a wide range of sectors, including goods, services, investment, and technology. It aims to reduce tariffs and enhance market access for Indian and Omani businesses. The agreement is anticipated to provide a framework for cooperation in areas such as renewable energy, information technology, and pharmaceuticals, aligning with India’s broader strategy to strengthen its economic ties with Gulf nations.
During his visit, Modi is scheduled to hold discussions with Omani Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, focusing on various aspects of the bilateral relationship. The two leaders are expected to explore opportunities for collaboration in sectors such as defense, security, and tourism, in addition to trade. The discussions will also likely address regional security issues, particularly in the context of the evolving geopolitical landscape in the Middle East.
The timing of Modi’s visit is significant, as it comes amid ongoing efforts by India to enhance its presence in the Gulf region. The Indian government has been actively pursuing trade agreements with several Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, recognizing the strategic importance of the region for India’s energy security and economic growth. Oman, with its strategic location along vital shipping routes, plays a crucial role in facilitating trade between India and other Gulf nations.
In recent years, India and Oman have also collaborated on defense and security matters. The two countries have conducted joint military exercises and have engaged in discussions on counter-terrorism and maritime security. The strengthening of defense ties is seen as a response to the evolving security dynamics in the region, particularly in light of tensions involving Iran and the ongoing conflicts in Yemen and Syria.
The implications of the CEPA extend beyond trade and economic cooperation. A successful agreement could serve as a model for India’s future trade negotiations with other Gulf nations, potentially paving the way for deeper integration into the regional economy. Furthermore, it could enhance India’s role as a key player in the Gulf, fostering stability and cooperation in a region marked by geopolitical complexities.
As Modi embarks on this visit, the outcomes of the discussions will be closely monitored by analysts and policymakers. The success of the CEPA could have far-reaching effects on the economic landscape of both countries, potentially leading to increased investment, job creation, and enhanced bilateral trade. Currently, trade between India and Oman stands at approximately $5 billion, with significant potential for growth.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Oman represents a pivotal moment in the India-Oman relationship, with the potential to reshape economic ties and enhance cooperation across various sectors. As both nations seek to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century, the outcomes of this visit will be critical in determining the trajectory of their partnership in the years to come.
