NEW DELHI, Dec 16: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday embarked on a three-nation tour to Jordan, Ethiopia and Oman, aimed at strengthening India’s bilateral relations and reinforcing engagement with key partners across West Asia and Africa.
Ahead of his departure, the Prime Minister said the visit would highlight India’s age old civilisational links as well as contemporary partnerships with the three countries. He noted that India shares deep historical ties and expanding bilateral cooperation with Jordan, Ethiopia and Oman.
Jordan visit marks 75 years of ties
In the first leg of the tour, PM Modi will visit Jordan at the invitation of King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein. During his two-day stay, the Prime Minister will hold talks with King Abdullah II to review the full spectrum of bilateral relations and exchange views on regional developments.
The visit coincides with the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Jordan. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the visit will help deepen engagement and explore new areas of cooperation while reaffirming India’s commitment to regional peace, security and stability.
First-ever visit to Ethiopia
PM Modi will travel to Ethiopia from December 16 at the invitation of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, marking his first visit to the African nation. The two leaders will hold wide ranging discussions on all aspects of India-Ethiopia relations.
The MEA said the visit reflects the shared commitment of both countries to strengthen bilateral cooperation. Indian Ambassador Anil Rai described India and Ethiopia as long standing partners with deep and friendly ties, noting their collaboration on global issues and within the BRICS framework.
Oman visit to mark 70 years of relations
In the final leg of the tour, the Prime Minister will visit Oman from December 17 to 18 at the invitation of Sultan Haitham bin Tarik. This will be his second visit to the Gulf nation.
The visit coincides with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Oman and follows the Sultan’s state visit to India in December 2023. Both sides are expected to review their strategic partnership and discuss cooperation in trade, investment, energy, defence, security, technology, agriculture and culture.
The MEA said India and Oman share an all encompassing strategic partnership rooted in centuries old ties of friendship, trade and strong people-to-people links.