PM Narendra Modi heads to Jordan, Ethiopia and Oman with trade, diplomacy on agenda

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday embarked on a visit to Jordan, Ethiopia and Oman, countries that India says share civilisational links and strong bilateral relations with New Delhi.

"First, I will be visiting Jordan, on the invitation of His Majesty King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein. This historic visit will mark 75 years of establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries," Naendra Modi said in his departure statement.

During his time in Jordan, the prime minister is scheduled to hold detailed discussions with King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein and Prime Minister Jafar Hassan. He will also meet Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah as part of the visit.


Also Read: India-Oman trade pact likely to be announced during PM's visit this week

Meanwhile, trade and investment diversification is expected to receive a push during Modi’s visit to Oman, where 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.

Modi will be in Oman on December 17 and 18. India describes Oman as its oldest strategic partner in the Gulf region. During the visit, the prime minister will address business leaders from both countries at a business forum. Commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal is also likely to be present at the event where the proposed CEPA could be announced.

Modi said the Oman visit would mark 70 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties between India and the Sultanate of Oman. In Muscat, he will hold discussions with the Sultan of Oman on strengthening the strategic partnership and expanding commercial and economic cooperation between the two countries.

The prime minister said he would also address a gathering of the Indian diaspora in Oman. “I will also address a gathering of the Indian diaspora in Oman, which has contributed immensely to the country's development and in enhancing our partnership,” Modi said.

Between his visits to Jordan and Oman, Modi will travel to Ethiopia, marking his first visit to the African nation. In Ethiopia, the prime minister will address a joint session of Parliament, where he will share his views on India’s journey as the “Mother of Democracy” and outline the value of the India-Ethiopia partnership for the Global South.

Modi will also hold discussions with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali during the visit and meet members of the Indian diaspora living in the country.