Muscat: His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of the Republic of India, have expressed their welcome of the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), highlighting its importance as a significant development in the economic relations between Oman and India. According to Oman News Agency, the joint statement issued during the official visit of Prime Minister Modi to the Sultanate of Oman on December 17-18, 2025, emphasized that CEPA will provide substantial opportunities in various economic sectors, promoting growth and enhancing the flow of investments between the two countries. The visit marked the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Oman and India and followed a significant state visit by His Majesty Sultan Haitham to India in December 2023. The leaders engaged in discussions covering numerous fields, including trade, investment, defense, security, technology, education, energy, and agriculture. Both sides recognized the historical and multi-faceted nature of their strategic partnership and acknowledged the potential for further growth in trade and commerce, particularly in textiles, vehicles, chemicals, and other areas. The statement noted that the CEPA would reduce trade barriers, establish a sustainable economic framework, and create opportunities for increased investment flows. Emphasis was placed on exploring investments in infrastructure, technology, manufacturing, and other priority sectors. Both countries acknowledged the success of the Oman-India Joint Investment Fund and discussed mechanisms to facilitate trade in local currencies. Progress on the Bilateral Investment Treaty was also noted, with both sides recognizing its potential to enhance economic cooperation. In the energy sector, the focus was on deepening cooperation, including opportunities for exploration and production and collaboration in renewable energy. The leaders agreed to pursue joint investments and technology transfer in pursuit of sustainable energy goals. Defense cooperation was commended, with commitments to joint exercises and initiatives to combat maritime crime and piracy. A Joint Vision Document on Maritime Cooperation was adopted, reflecting shared commitments to regional maritime security. Health cooperation was identified as a vital area for partnership, with ongoing initiatives such as establishing a Chair of Ayurveda at the National University of Science and Technology. Agricultural cooperation was also emphasized, with new Memoranda of Understanding signed to enhance collaboration in agricultural sciences. The leaders expressed satisfaction with growing cooperation in technology and cultural exchanges, welcoming initiatives such as the establishment of an Indian Council for Cultural Relations Chair at Sohar University. Further agreements included a Memorandum of Understanding on Maritime Heritage and Museums and a commitment to educational and scientific exchanges. People-to-people ties were highlighted as a cornerstone of the relationship, with appreciation for the Indian community's contributions to Oman's development. The leaders exchanged views on regional and international issues, condemning terrorism and expressing concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza. The visit concluded with the signing of several important documents, including the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement and various Memoranda of Understanding covering agriculture, maritime heritage, and higher education. An invitation was extended to His Majesty the Sultan for an official visit to India, underscoring the enduring relationship between the two nations.