External Affairs Minister interacts with diaspora in Muscat during the final leg of his Gulf tour, highlighting their contribution to bilateral relations
External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar met members of the Indian community in Muscat on Friday, praising their contribution to Omani society and their role in deepening the long-standing partnership between India and Oman.
During the interaction, Jaishankar said the enthusiasm of the Indian diaspora for strengthening ties between the two countries was clearly visible. In a message shared on social media after the meeting, he appreciated the community’s contribution to both local society and the broader India-Oman relationship.
The meeting was attended by Indian Ambassador to Oman Prashant Pise and Additional Secretary (Gulf) Aseem R. Mahajan, reflecting the importance New Delhi attaches to engagement with overseas Indians in the Gulf.
Jaishankar’s interaction with the diaspora formed part of his official visit to Oman, the final stop of his multi-nation tour covering Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman. The visit focused on strengthening India’s strategic partnerships in the Gulf and reviewing regional developments with partner countries.
Earlier in the day, Jaishankar held bilateral talks with Oman’s Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi. The two leaders reviewed the full spectrum of the India-Oman Strategic Partnership, with discussions covering trade, investment, connectivity, maritime cooperation, defence, technology, cyber security and artificial intelligence. They also exchanged views on developments in the Gulf and regional stability.
India also conveyed its appreciation to the Omani government for the assistance extended to Indian seafarers affected by recent tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, underlining the close coordination between the two countries during regional challenges
Oman hosts one of the largest Indian expatriate communities in the Gulf, with Indians playing a significant role across business, healthcare, education, engineering and other sectors. New Delhi regards the community as a key bridge in advancing the comprehensive and strategic partnership between the two countries.
