Muscat, Oman | December 19, 2025
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on the second day of his Oman visit on Thursday, said the India–Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) will take bilateral ties to new heights and inject fresh confidence and momentum into the partnership in the 21st century.
Addressing the India–Oman Business Forum in Muscat, PM Modi said the agreement, expected to be signed in his presence, would accelerate trade, strengthen investor confidence, and deepen economic cooperation between the two nations.
Historic Decision with Long-Term Impact
“Our relationship is built on trust and has grown stronger with time. Today we are taking a historic decision whose impact will be felt for decades,” the Prime Minister said, noting that India and Oman have completed 70 years of diplomatic relations.
He recalled centuries-old maritime ties, saying the Arabian Sea acted as a bridge between Mandvi and Muscat, strengthening trade, culture, and economic bonds. “Waves may change and seasons may change, but the friendship between India and Oman remains strong in every season,” he added.
India’s Economic Transformation Highlighted
PM Modi said India has not only reformed its policies in the last 11 years but has transformed its economic DNA. He highlighted reforms such as GST, which created a unified national market, and the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, which boosted transparency and investor confidence.
He also emphasized India’s position as the world’s fastest-growing major economy, citing expansion of IITs, IIMs, and AIIMS, along with major strides in technology and innovation.
Message to Indian Community in Oman
Later, addressing the Indian community in Muscat, PM Modi said Indians carry respect for diversity wherever they go.
“India’s diversity is the foundation of our culture. Wherever we live, we respect local traditions, laws, and customs. I see this spirit alive among Indians in Oman,” he said, praising the diaspora’s contribution to bilateral ties.
Diwali Gets Global Recognition
The Prime Minister also highlighted UNESCO’s recognition of Diwali as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, calling it a moment of pride for Indians worldwide.
“Now the lamp of Diwali will not only light our homes but illuminate the entire world with messages of hope, harmony, and humanity,” he said.
‘MAITRI’ Festival and Shared Future
PM Modi said India and Oman were celebrating the ‘MAITRI’ festival, symbolizing shared values:
M – Maritime Heritage
A – Aspiration
I – Innovation
T – Trust and Technology
R – Respect
I – Inclusive Growth
He said the festival reflects the deep friendship and shared vision for a prosperous future.
Education, Space, and Global Ambitions
Highlighting education ties, PM Modi noted that 46,000 students study in Indian schools in Oman, including children from other communities. He also spoke about India’s space achievements, saying India became the first country to reach the Moon’s south pole and will soon have its own space station.
