PM Narendra Modi added another milestone to his diplomatic journey on Thursday after receiving Oman’s highest civilian honour, the First Class of the Order of Oman. The award places him among a rare group of global leaders, including Nelson Mandela, Queen Elizabeth, and King Abdullah of Jordan.
The honour reflects the growing strength of India–Oman relations and recognises PM Modi’s role in deepening political, economic, and strategic ties between the two nations. This is the 29th international honour conferred on the Indian Prime Minister. PM Modi received the award during his visit to Oman, the final stop of his three-nation tour.
PM Modi Honoured With Oman’s Highest Honour
The First Class of the Order of Oman is the Sultanate’s highest civilian award, given to foreign leaders. It recognises exceptional contributions to bilateral relations and global cooperation.
The honour has previously been conferred on several renowned global figures, including Queen Elizabeth, Nelson Mandela, Queen Máxima, Emperor Akihito, and King Abdullah of Jordan.
By receiving the award, PM Modi joined this elite list, underscoring India’s growing influence and Oman’s trust in India as a long-term strategic partner.
PM Modi’s Oman Visit and Warm Welcome
PM Modi arrived in Muscat on Wednesday. Sultan Haitham bin Tarik welcomed him at Al Baraka Palace. The two leaders later held a high-level bilateral meeting. The visit marked a key moment in India–Omani ties, with both sides focusing on trade, investment, defence, and people-to-people relations.
India and Oman Sign Major Trade Agreement
During the meeting, India and Oman signed the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Both leaders welcomed the deal and said it would boost economic cooperation.
“The agreement will increase the trade between India and Oman, boost investment, catalyse economic diversification, unlock opportunities in all major sectors of the economy, enhance economic growth and generate employment,” Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.
“For people, CEPA means more jobs, better market access for businesses, stronger supply chains and greater economic opportunities on both sides,” Jaiswal added. The agreement aims to strengthen supply chains and create new business opportunities across sectors.
Key Issues Discussed During Bilateral Talks
The MEA spokesperson said the two leaders held wide-ranging discussions. “PM Modi and Sultan Haitham had exchanged views on a wide range of topics, including defense and security, trade and investment, energy and agriculture, technology and emerging and new fields, culture and people-to-people relations, and more,” Jaiswal said in a post on X. The leaders also discussed regional and global developments.
PM Modi at India–Oman Business Forum
Earlier in the day, PM Modi addressed the India–Oman Business Forum. He highlighted economic reforms introduced by India over the past 11 years.
According to ANI, the Prime Minister said these reforms have helped India become one of the most competitive markets globally. He invited Omani businesses to invest in India’s fast-growing sectors.
Why This Honour Matters for India?
The award reflects India’s rising global standing and PM Modi’s expanding diplomatic footprint. It also signals stronger cooperation between India and Gulf nations.
With CEPA in place and political ties growing stronger, India–Omani relations are set to enter a new phase of strategic partnership.
