India-GCC Relations Entering Active and Strategic Phase, Highlights Omani Diplomat

India's ties with the Gulf Cooperation Council are advancing into a strategic phase, emphasising political dialogue and economic cooperation, as stated by Omani officials.

Oman's engagement with India is entering a more strategic phase, focusing on political dialogue, maritime security, and economic cooperation. Senior Omani officials emphasised these priorities on Wednesday. Shaikh Ahmed bin Hashi Al Maskari, who leads the GCC & Regional Countries Department at Oman’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighted the importance of deepening ties with India amid recent security developments in West Asia.

Al Maskari noted that Oman hosted the Indian Ocean Conference earlier this year and remains committed to enhancing cooperation between India and Gulf countries. He confirmed that a high-level political dialogue between India and Oman is set to occur in Muscat next week. "A lot of things will be discussed, and we are happy to host the Secretary of Foreign Affairs," he stated.

Maritime Security and Economic Cooperation

Oman sees new commercial opportunities emerging as global supply chains shift and both India and the GCC implement digital and green-growth strategies. A senior diplomat pointed out that having a strategic port open to the oceans allows GCC countries to invest in and export to the Indian subcontinent. Priority sectors include logistics, renewable energy, and food-security corridors.

Ibrahim bin Bakhit Al Nudhairi, CEO of ASYAD Shipping, elaborated on the maritime aspect of this partnership. He mentioned that while ties are historically rooted, they are expanding rapidly to meet modern trading needs. "A lot of our ships call at Indian ports — whether LNG, container or bulk," he said.

Trade and Investment Opportunities

The Oman-India Fertiliser Company is actively exporting to India, while Oman imports extensively from Indian ports. With India's port-led development under the Maritime Vision policy, ASYAD anticipates increased traffic and joint activities. India has become a key market for ASYAD's logistics strategy, opening up possibilities for joint ventures and digital integration.

The India-Oman Joint Commission and Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) negotiations are progressing. Officials in Muscat expect these discussions to bring "tangible momentum" in shipping, energy, digital trade, and investment over the coming months.

As both nations advance their strategic interests, this collaboration promises mutual benefits across various sectors. The focus on maritime security and economic cooperation highlights the evolving dynamics between India and the GCC region.

With inputs from PTI