PM Modi conferred with the Order of Oman (First Class)

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with the Order of Oman, the Sultanate’s uniquely distinct civilian honour, by Sultan Haitham bin Tarik on December 18.

• PM Modi was honoured for his exceptional contribution to India-Oman ties and his visionary leadership.

• He received the award during his two-day visit to Oman, the final leg of his three-nation tour that included Jordan and Ethiopia. 

• Instituted in 1970 by Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the Order of Oman (First Class) has been bestowed upon select global leaders in recognition of their contribution to public life and bilateral relations.

• This is the latest addition to PM Modi’s distinguished list of highest civilian awards from foreign nations, including recent honours such as Ethiopia’s Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia.

Highlights of meeting with Sultan of Oman:

• This visit was of special significance as it takes place in the year marking 70th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between both countries. 

• They comprehensively reviewed the multifaceted India-Oman Strategic Partnership and appreciated the steady growth in bilateral ties. 

• The leaders also discussed giving new thrust to energy cooperation through long-term energy arrangements, renewable energy ventures and green hydrogen and green ammonia projects. 

• On the occasion of the visit, the two sides, in addition to CEPA, also signed MoUs/arrangement in the fields of maritime heritage, education, agriculture, and millet cultivation.

(The author is a trainer for Civil Services aspirants.)