NEW DELHI, Dec 18: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for receiving Oman’s highest civilian honour, describing it as a “grand endorsement of his statesmanship and acceptance as a global leader.”
Modi was conferred “The First Class of the Order of Oman” during his ongoing two-day visit to Oman, the final leg of a three-nation tour that included Jordan and Ethiopia.
Shah highlighted that the recognition underscores the influence of India’s 140 crore citizens and reflects India’s emergence as a transformed nation under Modi’s leadership.
Shah also lauded the India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), calling it a milestone for bilateral trade.
The agreement provides zero-duty access on 98.08% of Oman’s tariff lines, covering 99.38% of Indian exports.
He emphasized that the CEPA advances India’s trade diplomacy while prioritizing the welfare of farmers, artisans, women, and MSMEs.
According to Shah, the pact creates new opportunities for Indian industries and strengthens economic cooperation between the two nations.
Modi’s recognition in Oman adds to his growing list of international honours, which includes over 28 highest civilian awards from foreign nations, such as Ethiopia’s Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia and Kuwait’s Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer.
His visit coincides with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Oman, with both countries emphasizing the deepening of strategic ties in trade, investment, energy, defence, and culture.
Shah described these accolades as back-to-back endorsements of Modi’s global leadership, highlighting his ability to elevate India’s international standing and secure benefits for its citizens.
He framed the CEPA and other diplomatic achievements as evidence of a shift in India’s foreign policy, where the interests of the masses guide global negotiations.
Modi’s visit and recognition in Oman thus symbolize both India’s strengthened bilateral relations and its growing stature on the world stage. (PTI)
