Daijiworld Media Network - Muscat
Muscat, Jul 10: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday held talks with Oman's Foreign Minister, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamoud Al Busaidi, focusing on expanding the strategic partnership between the two countries and reviewing key regional and global developments.
According to Oman's Foreign Ministry, the discussions covered the longstanding bilateral relationship and explored opportunities to deepen cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, energy, logistics, advanced technologies and business partnerships.
The two ministers also examined ways to encourage greater collaboration between companies from both countries and promote high-quality investments that support mutual economic interests and take advantage of emerging opportunities.
Regional security issues also featured prominently during the meeting, with both sides exchanging views on developments affecting shipping and maritime navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. They discussed the potential impact of the evolving situation on international trade, global energy supplies and supply chains.
India and Oman emphasised the importance of maintaining close coordination and regular consultations on regional developments while supporting diplomatic efforts aimed at promoting dialogue, cooperation and stability. Both sides stressed that responses to the current challenges should remain consistent with international law and safeguard the interests of countries in the region.
The meeting was attended by several senior officials from both nations, including Oman's Circuit Ambassador Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al Hunaiai, Sheikh Ahmed bin Hashil Al Muski, Head of the Gulf Cooperation Council and Regional Neighbourhood Department, India's Ambassador to Oman Prashant Pise, and other officials.
Earlier in the day, Jaishankar met members of the Indian community in Oman and commended their contribution to strengthening people-to-people ties and the broader India-Oman partnership.
Sharing details of the interaction on social media platform X, the External Affairs Minister said he was encouraged by the Indian diaspora's enthusiasm for deepening bilateral relations and appreciated their contributions to Omani society as well as to the growing partnership between the two countries.
Jaishankar arrived in Oman on Thursday after completing an official visit to Kuwait. Oman is the fourth destination in his ongoing six-nation diplomatic tour, following which he is scheduled to visit New York and Brussels.