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A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Defence Cooperation
was signed between India and Oman here today. The areas
of cooperation envisaged in the MoU include exchange
of expertise in military training and information technology,
utilization of military and educational courses and
programmes, exchange of observers attending military
exercises and exchange of formal visits. The other areas
of cooperation as mentioned in MoU also include providing
assistance in identifying technical specifications of
military equipment in a bid to facilitate direct agreement
with manufacturing companies of both countries, maintaining
quality assurance by Ministry of Defence for contracts
signed within the framework of this MOU and collaboration
in other mutually agreed spheres of defence cooperation.
The MoU was signed by the Minister Responsible for
Defence Affairs of Oman Sayyid Badr Bin Saud Bin Hareb
AI Busaidi and the Defence Minister of India Shri Pranab
Mukherjee. The MoU is expected to further enhance constructive
interaction between the two countries and facilitate
strengthening bilateral defence relations, including
the supply of Indian equipment to Oman.
Earlier on his arrival at Defence Headquarters, the
visiting dignitary was given a ceremonial Guard of Honour.
The Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Arun Prakash, Defence
Secretary Shri Shekhar Dutt, Secretary DRDO Shri M Natrajan
and other senior civil and military officials called
on him.
During his talks with the Defence Minister Shri Pranab
Mukherjee, both the leaders reviewed with satisfaction
the high level defence exchanges and cooperation. It
may be recalled that the Navies of the two countries
have conducted Joint Naval Exercises and there have
been frequent exchange of visits of Naval Ships of both
the countries.
India has a historically close and multifaceted relationship
with Oman. The close political relationship between
the two countries has been characterized by common understanding
on issues of mutual concern. A 3,50,000 strong Indian
community has significantly contributed to the economic
development and other services including health care
in Oman. The upcoming Oman-India Fertilizer Company
is India's largest joint venture abroad which signifies
India's commitment to be a full partner in Oman's rapid
development and progress.
The Defence Minister of Oman is on a three-day state
visit to India at the invitation of Defence Minister
Shri Pranab Mukherjee
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