Friday 21 / February / 2025
New Delhi: The Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman in New Delhi organised a historical cultural symposium on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between the Sultanate of Oman and the Republic of India.
The symposium dealt with the two-countries’ commercial and cultural ties extending for more than 5,000 years.
The event, held in collaboration with Jamia Millia Islamia, highlighted the role of Omani ports like Muscat, Sohar and Qalhat in maritime trade, the impact of cultural exchange on language, arts and architecture and the role of Indian communities in promoting pluralism and religious tolerance.
During the symposium, Ambassador Ashok Kumar Attri discussed his experience of living in Oman, reasons for the settlement of Indian families in Oman, his tenure as head of the Indian mission in Muscat and the strong ties binding the two countries.
For his part, Shri L. Prashant Pise, Deputy Director General of the Indian Council of World Affairs, said that relations between India and Oman are deep-rooted in history. He added that the two countries’ diplomatic relations are based on friendship, civilzed exchange of mutual benefits and coexistence.
Prashant Pise presented a research paper about the history of Omani-Indian relations and the impact of pluralism and culture of difference on mutual understanding.
Omani researcher Dr. Saud Abdullah Al Zadjali presented a working paper on historical reasons for the strength of relations -- from western and eastern perspectives. The paper dealt with India’s strategic role as a permanent partner in the Arabian Gulf and its relationship with peoples, based on diversity that achieves the common interests and realises cultural communication.
The symposium was attended by Indian officials and former ambassadors to the Sultanate of Oman, academics, and students interested in the cultural and historical relations between Oman and India.
At its tasks, the symposium stressed the importance of pressing ahead with cultural and scientific dialogue between the two countries.
It underlined the significance of economic and educational cooperation in a manner that contributes to consolidating historical relations and opening new up new vistas for future rapprochment between the Sultanate of Oman and India. -ONA
