His Excellency Dr. Ali Bin Masoud Al Sunaidy, Commerce and Industry Minister of the Sultanate of Oman called on President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee at Rashtrapati Bhavan yesterday (October 27, 2014). Speaking on the occasion, the President said India’s relations with Oman are built on the strong foundation of historical and civilizational linkages. India appreciates and values the strategic partnership reflected in the remarkable growth in the two countries overall relationship in recent times. Bilateral trade between India and Oman has increased from US$ 4.6 billion in 2012-13 to US$ 5.77 billion in 2013-14. However, trade remains much below its potential and both sides need to bring it to a higher level commensurate with the depth of the bilateral relationship.
The President said India is happy that the India-Oman Joint Commission meeting is taking place after a gap of four years. He is sure that the deliberations of the 7th Joint Commission Meeting would be productive and would help in further strengthening bilateral economic and trade relations between India and Oman. Referring to the “Make in India” campaign, the President invited public and private sector companies of Oman to come and invest in Indian infrastructure and other sectors which offer good returns. The President expressed gratitude to Oman for its support to anti-piracy operations and said India is looking forward to the visit to India by His Majesty, the Sultan of Oman.
Dr. Sunaidy warmly reciprocated the President’s sentiments and said friends like India have fuelled Oman’s economy and helped its growth. He paid tribute to the Indian Community in Oman as well as Indian Professionals who are contributing to Oman’s economy. He said there is need for the two countries to re-connect keeping in mind the interests of the youth. They should do things differently so that relations can multiply rapidly on the terms of the youth and taking into account changes sweeping the world.