Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal began his official visit to Oman with a productive meeting with Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, Oman’s Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion. The discussions focused on advancing negotiations for the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), strengthening bilateral trade and investment ties, and identifying new avenues for collaboration.
Minister Goyal expressed optimism about the progress, stating that the talks would receive further momentum during the upcoming Joint Commission Meeting (JCM).
The minister also attended India’s 76th Republic Day celebrations at the Indian Embassy in Muscat, joined by Minister Al Yousef, prominent Omani dignitaries, and members of the Indian diaspora.
The event showcased India’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring friendship between the two nations. A highlight of the evening was the performance of Sur Sandook: India-Oman Jukebox, which celebrated the cultural ties between the two countries.
Minister Goyal is in Muscat for the 11th JCM with his Omani counterpart from January 27–28, 2025. The visit underscores India’s commitment to enhancing its trade and investment ties with Oman, an important partner within the Gulf Cooperation Council.
Bilateral trade between the two nations reached $8.94 billion in 2023-24, reflecting the depth of their economic relationship. The CEPA negotiations, which are at an advanced stage, are expected to gain further traction during the visit. Both sides are working toward a balanced, commercially significant, and mutually beneficial agreement that reflects their shared economic priorities.
