Minister Goyal expressed optimism about the progress made in the CEPA negotiations, highlighting that the talks would gain additional momentum during the upcoming Joint Commission Meeting (JCM). This visit underscores India’s dedication to enhancing its trade and investment relations with Oman, a key member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

The visit also saw Minister Goyal participating in India’s 76th Republic Day celebrations at the Indian Embassy in Muscat. The event was attended by Minister Al Yousef, senior Omani officials, and members of the Indian diaspora. A key highlight was the performance of Sur Sandook: India-Oman Jukebox, which celebrated the deep-rooted cultural ties between the two nations.

Minister Goyal is in Muscat from January 27–28, 2025, for the 11th Joint Commission Meeting with his Omani counterpart. The ongoing CEPA negotiations, which are in their advanced stages, are expected to gain further momentum during the visit, laying the groundwork for a comprehensive and mutually beneficial agreement.

In 2023-24, bilateral trade between India and Oman reached $8.94 billion, highlighting the strength and depth of their economic relationship. Both countries are working towards a CEPA that will reflect their shared economic priorities and deliver commercially significant outcomes.

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On his official social media, Goyal expressed optimism about the discussions, stating that they centered on enhancing trade and investment ties between the two nations. He also highlighted the intention to explore further avenues for deepening the bilateral partnership. In anticipation of the 11th Joint Commission Meeting (JCM), which will take place from January 27-28, Goyal noted that the talks would focus on “advancing CEPA negotiations and strengthening economic cooperation.”

India views Oman as a key partner in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), with bilateral trade surpassing USD 8.94 billion in 2023-2024. As part of the ongoing effort to enhance these ties, the two countries are in the advanced stages of negotiating the CEPA. The agreement aims to create a commercially significant, balanced, and mutually beneficial framework that will bolster trade and investment across multiple sectors.

During his visit, Goyal is accompanied by a business delegation that will participate in the Joint Business Council meeting between the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The discussions are expected to cover a range of topics, including the global economic landscape and investment opportunities.

In addition to his meetings with Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, Goyal is scheduled to meet with other prominent Omani officials, including Sultan bin Salim Al Habsi, Minister of Finance and Chairperson of the Ministerial Committee for CEPA, and Sheikh Dr. Ali bin Masoud Al Sunaidy, President of the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ). These interactions aim to further strengthen economic ties and explore new areas for collaboration.

Goyal’s visit underscores India’s commitment to enhancing its relations with Oman and advancing economic partnerships in the region. The progress made during the trip is expected to contribute significantly to fostering long-term, mutually beneficial ties between the two nations.

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