India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM), Dr. S. Jaishankar, visited Oman on February 16, 2025, to participate in the 8th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC). The high-profile event brought together global leaders, policymakers, and strategic thinkers to discuss pressing issues affecting the Indian Ocean region.
1️⃣ EAM’s Keynote Address: Strengthening Regional Cooperation
Dr. Jaishankar delivered the keynote address during the inaugural session of the conference, reaffirming India’s commitment to promoting stability, security, and economic growth in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). He emphasized India’s vision for an inclusive, rules-based maritime order, highlighting:
✅ The importance of freedom of navigation and unimpeded trade.
✅ India’s role in disaster relief, maritime security, and climate resilience.
✅ The need for greater regional cooperation in blue economy and connectivity projects.
2️⃣ Strengthening India-Oman Bilateral Ties
During his visit, Dr. Jaishankar held a bilateral meeting with Oman’s Foreign Minister, H.E. Sayyid Badr Albusaidi. Discussions covered:
🔹 Trade and investment opportunities between the two nations.
🔹 Strengthening defense and security ties, particularly maritime security.
🔹 Collaboration in renewable energy and critical infrastructure projects.
Dr. Jaishankar thanked Oman for its continued support in fostering India-Oman relations and commended its key role in regional diplomacy.
3️⃣ Celebrating 70 Years of India-Oman Diplomatic Relations
In a significant gesture marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties between India and Oman, Dr. Jaishankar and Foreign Minister Albusaidi unveiled a specially designed commemorative logo. The emblem symbolizes the rich cultural, historical, and economic partnership between the two nations.
Additionally, EAM launched a new book, “Mandvi to Muscat: Indian Community and the Shared History of India and Oman”, published by the Embassy of India in Muscat. The book highlights the centuries-old people-to-people ties and the contributions of the Indian diaspora to Oman’s progress.
4️⃣ High-Level Diplomatic Engagements
On the sidelines of the conference, Dr. Jaishankar held bilateral meetings with Foreign Ministers of key regional nations, including:
✔ Bangladesh
✔ Sri Lanka
✔ Maldives
✔ Nepal
✔ Bhutan
✔ Mauritius
✔ Iran
✔ Brunei
The discussions covered regional security, trade, connectivity, and climate action, reflecting India’s proactive engagement in the Indian Ocean region.
5️⃣ India-Oman Relations: A Strategic Partnership
India and Oman share a long-standing, strategic partnership, with deep cooperation in:
🔹 Energy and trade – Oman is a key partner in India’s energy security.
🔹 Defense and security – Regular joint military exercises and maritime collaborations.
🔹 Diaspora and cultural ties – Over 700,000 Indians contribute significantly to Oman’s workforce and economy.
6️⃣ Strategic Significance of the Visit
Dr. Jaishankar’s participation in the 8th Indian Ocean Conference and his bilateral engagements with regional leaders reaffirm India’s commitment to fostering peace, stability, and economic integration in the IOR. The visit also paves the way for:
✅ Stronger economic and trade partnerships in the region.
✅ Increased cooperation in maritime security and counterterrorism.
✅ Enhanced people-to-people and cultural exchanges between India and Oman.
With India’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean and Gulf region, the visit marks a key milestone in strengthening strategic and regional collaborations.