At the Ninth Strategic Dialogue between India and Oman which took place in Muscat, Oman, on Feb 26, 2024 various issues including the regional security situation, particularly in light of conflicts such as the one in Gaza, affecting areas like the Red Sea were discussed. The two countries also talked about the GCC region, and the broader Middle East. Bilaterally, both sides recalled about the successful visit of His Majesty, the Sultan of Oman, to India the previous year.
India also thanked Oman for its participation and support during the G20 Summit held in New Delhi, contributing to its success. Representing India was Vikram Misri, the Deputy National Security Adviser from the National Security Council Secretariat. This dialogue, which commenced in 2014, has been an annual event, alternating between India and Oman. However, it couldn’t convene in 2021 and 2022 due to the Covid Pandemic.
According to sources, during his visit to Muscat for the Ninth Strategic Dialogue, Misri also met with Gen. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Nomani, the Minister of Royal Office, Sultanate of Oman. He expressed profound appreciation for the close cooperation between India and Oman and hoped for the continued growth of their ties.
The dialogue proceeded in an open and constructive manner, covering various regional and bilateral concerns. Recognizing the historical depth of their ties, both nations highlighted the positive impact of people-to-people exchanges. India expressed gratitude for Oman’s hospitality towards its large expatriate community, which has played a constructive role in Oman’s development. The significance of the waters between India and Oman as a connecting link was emphasized, along with discussions on progressing towards a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
Both sides affirmed their commitment to addressing existing bilateral issues and exploring new avenues of cooperation, including strategic, military, and security domains, as well as disaster management, oceanography, and artificial intelligence.
Reflecting on progress since the previous dialogue in New Delhi in early 2023, they expressed optimism about maintaining momentum. The Tenth round of the India-Oman Strategic Dialogue is slated to be held in New Delhi next year.