Prime Minister Narendra Modi added another milestone to his global diplomatic journey after being conferred “The First Class of the Order of Oman,” the highest civilian honour of the Gulf nation. The prestigious award places him among an elite group of global leaders and marks a significant moment in India’s growing international stature.
The honour was bestowed on PM Modi by Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman, following which the two leaders held high-level bilateral talks to further strengthen cooperation between the two countries. With this recognition, PM Modi has now received his 29th international honour, underscoring India’s expanding global influence and his leadership on the world stage.
Notably, the Order of Oman has earlier been awarded to iconic global figures such as Nelson Mandela, Queen Elizabeth II, Emperor Akihito of Japan, Queen Máxima of the Netherlands, and King Abdullah of Jordan.
India-Oman CEPA Signed
A key outcome of PM Modi’s visit was the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and Oman. Both leaders described the pact as a transformative step in deepening the India-Oman strategic partnership.
Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the agreement is expected to significantly boost bilateral trade, attract investments, strengthen supply chains, promote economic diversification and create employment opportunities in both countries.
Beyond Trade: Expanding Cooperation
During bilateral discussions, the two leaders reviewed cooperation across a wide range of sectors, including defence and security, energy, agriculture, technology, culture, and people-to-people exchanges. They also exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual interest.
Focus on Future Growth
PM Modi also addressed the India-Oman Business Forum, where he highlighted India’s economic reforms over the past 11 years and said these measures have positioned the country as one of the world’s most competitive and attractive investment destinations.
The conferment of Oman’s highest civilian honour and the signing of the CEPA reflect renewed momentum in India-Oman relations, anchored in mutual trust, shared economic growth and a forward-looking partnership.
