Muscat (Oman): As preparations are underway for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s arrival in Oman, members of the Indian business and professional community expressed high hopes on Wednesday regarding the visit. They described it as a significant opportunity to deepen India-Oman relations and enhance cooperation in sectors such as energy, manufacturing, healthcare, tourism, and logistics.
Speaking to IANS news agency in Muscat, Indian industry leaders said the Prime Minister’s visit comes at a time when both countries are looking to further their partnership through structured dialogue and a potential Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
‘Visit can unlock cooperation in several sectors’
In this regard, Nirmal K. Minda, Executive Chairman of Uno Minda Limited, said the visit can unlock cooperation in several sectors. Minda said, “Oman’s low energy costs and India’s robust manufacturing ecosystem create a natural complementarity.”
He added that from an Indian perspective, it makes sense for Omani investors to consider India as a manufacturing destination under the Make in India initiative. He said, “Manufacturing in India provides access to skilled manpower, which is a challenge in Oman, while Oman can play a crucial role as a logistics and trading hub connecting the entire region, including the UAE.”
Relations to be further strengthened
Sharing a similar view, Sangeeta Reddy, Joint Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited, said the Prime Minister’s visit will further strengthen the already robust relationship between India and Oman.
Reddy said, “Indians have been contributing to Oman’s growth for decades and are highly respected for their contributions to the country’s economy and society.” According to her, as commercial ties grow through trade agreements, the social and cultural ties between the two countries will also be further strengthened. Adding a broader historical perspective, Saleh Mohammed Alshanfari, Chairman of Aliz Foods LLC, said that India and Oman share a relationship that goes far beyond business. He said, “Maritime connections, cultural exchanges, and social ties have linked the two countries for centuries.”
