In an effort towards enhancing the defence relations between India and Oman in the maritime sector, the 6th edition of Staff Talks between the Indian Navy (IN) and the Royal Navy of Oman (RNO) took place in New Delhi.
At the two days talks from June 4-5, the RNO delegation was led by Commodore Jasim Mohammed Ali Al Balushi, Director General of Operations and Plans, while Commodore Manmeet Singh Khurana, Commodore (Foreign Cooperation), headed the Indian delegation. These Navy-to-Navy Staff Talks highlight the strong bilateral relations between the two countries, who share a long-standing maritime history.
Focus of the talks
During the discussions, both sides focused on common maritime security challenges that demand greater interoperability at sea. They explored various areas of cooperation, including operational collaboration, information sharing, Maritime Domain Awareness, training, meteorology, hydrography, and technical assistance. These discussions are crucial for addressing mutual security concerns and enhancing cooperation in the maritime domain.
In addition to the talks, the delegation visited the Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) in Gurugram. They also met with Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff of the Indian Navy. These interactions provided further opportunities for the two navies to discuss strategic issues and build on their existing partnership.
Oman is one of India’s closest partners in the Gulf region, and the regular conduct of these Staff Talks is vital for consolidating gains in naval cooperation. The continued engagement through these talks ensures that both navies remain aligned in their efforts to address shared security challenges and enhance their operational capabilities.
The 6th edition of the Indian Navy – Royal Navy of Oman Staff Talks is a testament to the enduring maritime partnership between India and Oman. This event not only strengthens their bilateral relations but also contributes to regional stability and security in the Indian Ocean.