PM Modi Conferred Oman’s Highest Civilian Honour During State Visit to Muscat
Sultan Haitham bin Tarik bestows ‘The First Class of the Order of Oman’ on Indian Prime Minister, marking 70 years of diplomatic ties and landmark trade deal
NewsArc Report December 18, 2025
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Thursday bestowed with The First Class of the Order of Oman, the Sultanate’s highest civilian honour, by His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik during a ceremonial event in Muscat. The award recognises Modi’s significant contributions to deepening India-Oman relations, built on centuries-old maritime links and shared cultural heritage.
In a post on X shortly after the ceremony, Modi expressed his gratitude, stating: “Honoured to receive the Order of Oman (First Class). My gratitude to His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, the Government and people of Oman for this honour. This is a symbol of affection and trust between the people of India and Oman.”
He dedicated the accolade to the people of India and to historical ties, noting: “For centuries, our ancestors have been connected with each other, engaged in maritime trade… The Arabian Sea has become a strong bridge between our nations.” Modi specifically highlighted the contributions of traders from Mandvi in Gujarat to Muscat and generations of seafarers who fostered progress in both countries.
The conferment took place during Modi’s two-day state visit to Oman, the final leg of his three-nation tour that included Jordan and Ethiopia. The visit coincides with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
In a major economic breakthrough, India and Oman signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), providing duty-free access for Indian goods on over 98% of tariff lines and expected to significantly boost bilateral trade in sectors like energy, minerals, electronics, and agriculture.
The Order of Oman (First Class) is a prestigious distinction previously awarded to global figures such as Nelson Mandela, Queen Elizabeth II, Japan’s Emperor Akihito, and Jordan’s King Abdullah II. This marks the 29th international civilian honour received by PM Modi.
The visit underscores the robust strategic partnership between India and Oman, encompassing defence cooperation, energy security, and people-to-people ties, with a vibrant Indian diaspora playing a key role in the Gulf nation.
Modi’s trip has reinforced India’s growing diplomatic and economic footprint in the Gulf and Africa regions.
