Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced a three-nation tour on Monday, with Jordan, Ethiopia, and Oman on the agenda, aiming to bolster diplomacy and trade relations with these key partners in West Asia and Africa. In his departure statement, Modi emphasized the importance of the visit, highlighting India's dedication to strengthening partnerships with nations that share long-standing civilizational connections and robust contemporary relations with New Delhi. He described the three countries as long-standing partners and noted that the tour would provide an opportunity to review and expand cooperation across various sectors.
The Prime Minister's first destination is the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, marking a historic visit as India and Jordan celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations. During his stay in Amman, PM Modi will engage in discussions with King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein, Prime Minister Jafar Hassan, and Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah. He is also scheduled to interact with members of the Indian community in Jordan, acknowledging their role in strengthening bilateral ties. India and Jordan share strong economic ties, with India being Jordan's third-largest trading partner. Jordan is also viewed as a key player in regional peace efforts and is vital for India's food security through fertilizer imports and investments in potash and phosphate sectors.
From Jordan, PM Modi will travel to Ethiopia at the invitation of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali. This marks his first visit to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, whose capital, Addis Ababa, hosts the headquarters of the African Union. The visit occurs against the backdrop of the African Union's admission as a permanent member of the G20 during India's presidency in 2023. In Addis Ababa, the Prime Minister will hold discussions with PM Abiy Ahmed and meet with members of the Indian diaspora. He is also set to address a joint session of the Ethiopian Parliament, where he is expected to speak about India's democratic journey and the potential of the India–Ethiopia partnership for the Global South. The MEA stated that the Ethiopia visit will reaffirm the shared commitment of both countries, as partners in the Global South, to strengthening friendship and expanding bilateral cooperation.
PM Modi will visit Oman during the final leg of his tour, marking 70 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. In Muscat, the Prime Minister will hold talks with the Sultan of Oman, focusing on further strengthening the India–Oman Strategic Partnership and expanding commercial and economic cooperation. He will also address the Indian diaspora in Oman, highlighting their contribution to the country's development and to bilateral relations. A possible announcement of the India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement is on the agenda. The agreement is expected to be the key outcome of the Muscat visit later this week. India describes Oman as its oldest strategic partner in the Gulf region. A number of documents are expected to be signed during the Prime Minister's visit to Oman.
This visit, spanning December 15-18, is geared towards strengthening bilateral relations, commemorating diplomatic milestones, and exploring opportunities for enhanced cooperation across sectors like trade and defense. The Prime Minister is accompanied by a high-level delegation.
