Oman’s Foreign Minister, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, has described the country’s relationship with India as “close” and emphasized that “the sky’s the limit” for future collaborations. This statement comes as both nations celebrate 70 years of formal diplomatic ties, a milestone that highlights their deep-rooted historical and cultural connections.
A Historical Bond
The formal diplomatic relationship between Oman and India began in 1955 with the establishment of India’s first Consulate in Muscat. This was later upgraded to a Consulate General in 1960 and subsequently to an Embassy in 1971. Oman reciprocated by opening its Embassy in New Delhi in 1972 and a Consulate General in Mumbai in 1976.
However, as Minister Al Busaidi pointed out, the connection between the two countries extends far beyond these official diplomatic ties. Trade and cultural exchanges between Oman and India date back over 5,000 years, with historical evidence of maritime trade linking the coasts of Oman and India. The Indian diaspora has also played a crucial role in shaping Omani society, contributing to business, education, and cultural exchanges over centuries.
Commemorative Initiatives
To mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties, both nations have planned a series of events and initiatives throughout 2025. The celebrations began with the unveiling of a specially designed logo by India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, and Minister Al Busaidi. The logo represents the historical and cultural bonds shared by both countries and serves as a reminder of the growing partnership.
Additionally, a book titled Mandvi to Muscat was launched, documenting the deep-rooted diaspora connections and shared history between Oman and India. Various cultural events, academic exchanges, and business forums are planned throughout the year to strengthen the bilateral relationship further.
Economic and Trade Collaborations
The economic relationship between Oman and India has grown significantly over the years. Bilateral trade between the two nations has witnessed a sharp increase, more than doubling from USD 5.4 billion in 2020-21 to USD 12.3 billion in 2022-23. Oman has been a vital trade and investment partner for India in the Gulf region, with both nations working towards finalizing a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). This agreement is expected to enhance trade, investment, and economic cooperation across various sectors.
Oman’s strategic location along major shipping routes has made it an essential partner for India in trade and logistics. The Duqm port in Oman has been of particular interest to India, with plans for its use as a logistics hub for Indian businesses. Moreover, Oman has been a major supplier of crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) to India, further strengthening economic ties.
Defense Cooperation
Defense collaboration between India and Oman is one of the strongest in the Gulf region. Oman is India’s oldest defense partner in the region, with formal ties established since 1972. The two countries conduct regular joint military exercises across all three branches of the armed forces.
The naval exercise Naseem Al Bahr is one of the longest-running maritime exercises between the two countries, last held in November 2022. Similarly, the army exercise Al Najah was conducted in September 2024. These military collaborations highlight the mutual commitment to regional security and counterterrorism efforts.
Oman has also granted India access to its military facilities, including the strategic Duqm port, which allows Indian naval ships to dock and refuel. This access enhances India’s maritime reach and strengthens its security presence in the Indian Ocean region.
High-Level Visits and Diplomatic Engagements
Regular high-level visits have further strengthened the diplomatic relationship between Oman and India. In December 2023, Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tarik made a state visit to India, marking a significant step in deepening bilateral relations. The visit focused on trade, investment, and strategic cooperation.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi also visited Oman in 2018, where several agreements were signed to enhance trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges. During India’s G20 Presidency in 2023, Oman was invited as a guest country, actively participating in over 150 meetings. Nine Omani ministers traveled to India for various G20 ministerial meetings, further underscoring the strong ties between the two nations.
Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges
The India-Oman relationship extends beyond politics and economics; it is deeply rooted in culture and shared heritage. The Indian diaspora in Oman, numbering over 700,000, has played a pivotal role in strengthening people-to-people ties. Many Indians have made significant contributions in sectors such as healthcare, education, business, and engineering, further integrating the two societies.
Omani and Indian cultural influences are evident in food, music, and traditions. The year-long celebrations of the 70th anniversary will include cultural exhibitions, music festivals, film screenings, and academic exchanges to showcase the shared heritage of the two nations.
Future Prospects: Expanding the Partnership
As Oman and India look to the future, there are numerous opportunities for collaboration in emerging sectors such as technology, renewable energy, healthcare, and education. Minister Al Busaidi emphasized the immense potential for growth, stating that “the potential for further partnership in all fields is there to be grasped by governments, the private sector, and young people of both countries.”
Renewable energy is a key area where both nations can collaborate. Oman is investing heavily in green hydrogen and solar energy projects, and India’s expertise in renewable energy technologies presents an opportunity for increased cooperation. Education and skill development are also expected to see greater collaboration, with more Indian institutions establishing partnerships with Omani universities.
India’s growing technological prowess in sectors like artificial intelligence, fintech, and digital innovation also presents opportunities for joint ventures with Omani enterprises. These collaborations will not only benefit the two nations economically but also create employment and technological advancements.
Conclusion
The 70-year diplomatic journey between Oman and India is a testament to their long-standing friendship, shared history, and mutual commitment to growth. As both nations celebrate this milestone, they continue to build on their strong foundation, exploring new avenues for trade, security, and cultural exchanges.
With strong leadership, strategic partnerships, and a shared vision for the future, the relationship between Oman and India is set to reach new heights. As Minister Al Busaidi aptly put it, “the sky’s the limit” for the potential that lies ahead in this enduring partnership.
Oman Honors 57 Youths for Completing 30-Day Fajr Prayer Challenge
