India, Oman armies to hold joint military exercise in 2011

Muscat, May 18 (ANI): Enhancing bilateral relations between India and Oman, visiting Defence Minister A.K. Antony has said that both countries will jointly take part in a military exercise in India next year.

Addressing Indian diaspora here, Antony said: "We have conducted joint military operations with the Omani forces and we are exploring further avenues of co-operation in trade and commerce mong others."

He emphasised that bilateral relations will witness bolstered relations between both nations.

"The bilateral relations between India and Oman are centuries old. We consolidate our relations on a regular basis while exploring newer avenues of mutual co-operation," he added.

He also held wide-ranging talks with his Oman counterpart Sayyid Badr bin Saud bin Harib Al Busaidi.

The two leaders discussed ways to promote military cooperation between the two countries, Gulf News reports.

This is the first high-level Indian delegation to visit Oman after Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's trip in 2008.

Antony is accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Defence Secretary Pradeep Kumar. (ANI)