Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday praised the Indian community in Oman, describing the Indian diaspora as a “living example of co-existence and co-operation,” while addressing members of the community and students in Muscat.
PM Modi began his address amid chants of “Bharat Mata ki Jai,” “Vande Mataram,” and “Modi, Modi,” reflecting the strong emotional bond between Indians overseas and their homeland.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said, “The Indian diaspora has become a living example of co-existence and co-operation.”
Describing the deep bond between India and its people abroad, he said, “Today, we have all gathered here as a family. We are celebrating our country, our Team India.”
Highlighting India’s pluralistic ethos, PM Modi said, “Diversity in India is the strong foundation of our culture. For us, every day brings new colours, every season becomes a new festival, and every tradition comes with a new idea.”
Linking this cultural outlook to the global presence of Indians, he added, “That is why wherever Indians go, wherever we reside, we respect diversity.”
Referring to a recent global recognition, the Prime Minister said UNESCO’s inscription of Diwali on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity reflects the global relevance of Indian traditions. “Now, Diwali’s ‘diya’ will illuminate not just our homes but the entire world. This is a matter of pride for Indians across the globe,” he said.
Emphasising the broader message of the festival, PM Modi added, “This recognition is also a recognition of the light that spreads hope, harmony, and humanity.”
The Prime Minister also spoke about the celebration of India-Oman ties through the India-Oman Maitri Parv. Explaining its symbolism, he said, “M stands for Maritime heritage, A for Aspirations, I for Innovation, T for Trust and Technology, R for Respect, and I for Inclusive Growth.”
“This Maitri Parv celebrates the friendship between our two countries, our shared history, and a prosperous future,” he added.
Highlighting historical links, PM Modi said, “India and Oman have always shared close and living ties. The monsoon winds of the Indian Ocean guided trade between our two nations.”
“Our ancestors sailed wooden boats from ports such as Lothal, Mandvi, and Tamralipti to Muscat, Sur, and Salalah. I am delighted that these historic ties from Mandvi to Muscat have been documented in a book by our Embassy,” he said.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi addressed the India-Oman Business Forum, highlighting the wide-ranging reforms undertaken by India over the past 11 years that have made it one of the most competitive markets in the world.
Underlining the importance of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), he said it would provide renewed confidence and momentum to the bilateral partnership. “Over the past 11 years, India has not just changed its policies; it has changed its economic DNA,” he remarked.
He cited reforms such as the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, noting that GST transformed India into a unified national market, while the insolvency framework brought financial discipline, promoted transparency, and strengthened investor confidence.
PM Modi arrived in Muscat on Wednesday for a two-day visit, the final leg of his three-nation tour that included Jordan and Ethiopia. He was received at the airport by Oman’s Deputy Prime Minister for Defence Affairs, Sayyid Shihab bin Tariq Al Said, and accorded a guard of honour, underscoring the importance Oman attaches to the visit.
The visit, taking place at the invitation of Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, is expected to further strengthen the India-Oman Strategic Partnership, with discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in commercial and economic sectors, including progress towards an ambitious trade pact.
Oman’s Ambassador to India, Sheikh Humaid bin Ali bin Sultan Al-Mani, described the visit as a “very important” milestone in bilateral relations, particularly as India and Oman mark 70 years of diplomatic ties this year. He noted that the visit follows Sultan Haitham’s trip to India in December 2023 and holds significance on multiple fronts.
(ANI)
