*India and Oman Forge Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in Bilateral Talks* New Delhi, Dec 16 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tarik have solidified a vision document to expedite the conclusion of a comprehensive economic partnership agreement.
The leaders aim to significantly enhance bilateral cooperation, focusing on key areas such as maritime security, connectivity, health, and digital payments. During their discussions, PM Modi and Sultan Tarik addressed the ongoing Hamas-Israel conflict and the challenges posed by terrorism.
They emphasized the importance of working towards a two-state solution to resolve the Palestine issue. Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra characterized the talks between PM Modi and Sultan Tarik as “comprehensive and constructive,” highlighting the strategic partnership between India and Oman in maritime security within the Western Indian Ocean.
Kwatra noted the evolving relationship between the two nations, describing it as a strategic partnership marked by robust cooperation across diverse fields. Both leaders expressed a commitment to maritime security in the Western Indian Ocean and engaged in multi-dimensional defense collaboration.
Regarding economic ties, Kwatra stated that negotiations on the India-Oman comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA) have made substantial progress in recent rounds of discussions. Both leaders are eager to conclude the CEPA at the earliest.
The Sultan of Oman’s state visit to India, his first since assuming leadership, is deemed historic in strengthening bilateral relations. PM Modi welcomed Sultan Tarik, stating, “Today is a historic day in India-Oman relations.” The visit signifies a renewed commitment to collaboration between the two nations across various sectors.
