India–Oman Strategic Partnership
Context
PM Narendra Modi’s Oman visit during his West Asia–Africa tour coincides with 70 years of India–Oman diplomatic relations, amid growing geopolitical churn in West Asia and the Indian Ocean Region.
Historical Foundations and Evolution
India–Oman ties are rooted in a civilisational maritime bridge across the Indian Ocean, with long-standing trade, cultural and navigational links. Deep people-to-people ties built enduring trust. Oman maintained steady engagement with India during regional uncertainties. The partnership was institutionalised through the Defence MoU 2005 and Strategic Partnership 2008. Post-2018, cooperation expanded to Duqm port access, digital connectivity and IMEC discussions.
Defence and Maritime Security
Duqm port access enhances Indian naval logistics and operational reach in the western Indian Ocean. Regular joint exercises and interoperability strengthen HADR and crisis response capabilities. Overflight and transit facilities support evacuation and disaster management.
Trade Investment and Economic Linkages
The relationship is supported by a strong joint venture ecosystem. There are over 6,000 India–Oman joint ventures with investments of about 776 million dollars. Indian firms are major investors in Sohar and Salalah Free Zones, linking India to Gulf–Africa supply chains.
Fintech and Digital Public Infrastructure
Payment connectivity reduces friction for remittances, tourism and MSMEs. The Central Bank of Oman–NPCI MoU October 2022 and RuPay launch in Oman highlight India’s Digital Public Infrastructure diplomacy.
Energy Transition and Emerging Areas
Cooperation is expanding beyond hydrocarbons to green hydrogen, renewable energy and critical minerals, aimed at long-term energy security. Education and health partnerships offer scope for a knowledge and skills corridor.
Challenges
Regional volatility threatens trade routes and diaspora safety. Trade remains commodity-concentrated, limiting CEPA gains. Great power competition in the Indian Ocean Region adds strategic sensitivity to port access. Implementation gaps and diaspora vulnerabilities remain concerns.
Conclusion
India–Oman relations blend civilisational depth with strategic relevance across maritime security, fintech and energy transition. A focused CEPA, backed by effective delivery and diversification, can strengthen this partnership amid regional uncertainty.
Source : The Print