Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded the prestigious “First Class of the Order of Oman”, the country’s highest national honour, during his visit to Oman on Thursday. This marks the 29th global recognition received by PM Modi and places him alongside world figures like Nelson Mandela, Queen Elizabeth, Emperor Akihito, and King Abdullah of Jordan.
PM Modi arrived in Oman on Wednesday as the final stop of his three-nation tour. He was welcomed by Sultan Haitham bin Tarik at Al Baraka Palace in Muscat before their bilateral discussions. The leaders held extensive talks covering defense, security, trade, energy, agriculture, technology, culture, and people-to-people ties.
A highlight of the visit was the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and Oman. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, CEPA is expected to enhance trade and investment, diversify economies, strengthen supply chains, generate jobs, and open opportunities across major sectors. “For people, CEPA means better market access for businesses, more jobs, and stronger economic ties on both sides,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.
In addition to the formal talks, PM Modi participated in the India-Oman Business Forum, where he emphasized India’s reforms over the past 11 years that have made the country one of the most competitive markets globally. The forum provided a platform to discuss bilateral economic opportunities and collaboration in emerging sectors.
The visit strengthens India-Oman strategic relations and demonstrates a shared commitment to economic growth, regional stability, and enhanced bilateral cooperation. Observers note that such engagements reinforce India’s growing influence in the Gulf region and its role in shaping trade and security partnerships.
