Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman embarked on a three-day state visit to India, commencing on Friday. Upon his arrival, he was welcomed by Union Minister V Muraleedharan, and the visit was extended at the invitation of President Droupadi Murmu.
In the ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Murmu received the Sultan. A Guard of Honour by the combined defence services was presented, followed by bilateral talks and a luncheon hosted by Prime Minister Modi at Hyderabad House.
The Ministry of External Affairs’ official spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi, expressed optimism that the Sultan’s visit would strengthen the enduring friendship and cooperation between India and Oman. Bagchi underscored the significance of this maiden state visit in the diplomatic ties between New Delhi and Muscat.
The historical, cultural, and economic bonds between India and Oman date back 5,000 years, with diplomatic relations established in 1955 and elevated to a strategic partnership in 2008. Oman holds a unique position as India’s closest defense partner in the Gulf region, fostering defense cooperation as a crucial aspect of their strategic partnership.
Highlighting the depth of their ties, India extended a special invitation to Oman to participate in the G20 Summit under India’s presidency. Oman actively engaged in over 150 working group meetings and various G20 ministerial meetings, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of their collaboration.
