Omani Defence Under Secretary to visit India

New Delhi, May 12: Seeking to enhance bilateral defence relations, Omani Under Secretary of Defence Mohammad Nasir Mohammad Raasbi begins a weeklong visit to India next Monday.

During his stay here, Mr Raasbi is expected to meet Defence Minister Pranab Mukherjee and hold meetings with defence officials on Indo-Oman Joint Military Cooperation, an official spokesman said.

Mr Raasbi will also visit Bharat Electronics Limited and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited in Bangalore before returning home on May 21.

Last year, India and Oman signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Defence Cooperation envisaging exchange of expertise in military training and information technology, utilisation of military and educational courses and programmes, exchange of observers attending military exercises and exchange of formal visits.

India has a historically close and multifaceted relationship with Oman. The close political relationship between the two countries has been characterised by common understanding on issues of mutual concern. A 350,000 strong Indian community has significantly contributed to the economic development and other services including health care in Oman.

UNI