New Delhi, Jan 14 (UNI) union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal on Wednesday held a bilateral meeting with Oman’s Transport Minister Saeed bin Hamood bin Said Al Mawali, and both discussed expanding maritime cooperation between the two countries.
Sonowal highlighted significant opportunities for Oman companies to participate in India’s rapidly expanding port and maritime sector. He said India’s flagship port-led infrastructure projects offer attractive platforms for investment under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework.
He also outlined India’s 8.4 billion dollars maritime development package aimed at strengthening the shipbuilding ecosystem.
The initiative focuses on the creation of shipbuilding clusters, shipbuilding-led industrialisation, research and development support, and the establishment of a Maritime Development Fund.
He also proposed the establishment of a Green Shipping Corridor between India and Oman as a key area of future collaboration. The minister further welcomed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between India and Oman on maritime heritage and museums, noting that it would deepen cooperation and further enrich the two countries’ shared maritime history.
Meanwhile Sonowal, who was in Oman received Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Kaundinya that arrived in Muscat on Wednesday, completing its maiden voyage from Porbandar, marking an important occasion in the country’s shared maritime heritage with Oman.
The ship, along with the crew were received by the minister at the Port Sultan Qaboos.
Speaking on the occasion, the minister said that the event marks a deep-rooted civilizational bond, apart from the celebration of a voyage.
“The arrival of this stitched ship in Muscat is symbolic of the enduring India-Oman friendship that has stood the test of time and that is anchored in history, enriched by trade, and strengthened by mutual respect,” Sonowal said.
He called the ship an example of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji’s visionary leadership, adding that it was his resolve to revive country’s ancient shipbuilding genius and present it proudly before the world.
The voyage of the traditionally built stitched vessel not only highlights the deep-rooted maritime and cultural ties between the two countries, spanning more than 5,000 years, and also underscore role of oceans as connective corridors.
The expedition holds added significance as both countries commemorate 70 years of diplomatic relations. Sonowal also said that the arrival of this ship in Muscat is symbolic of the enduring India-Oman friendship that has stood the test of time.
The ship is named after Indian mariner Kaundinya, and showcases indigenous maritime knowledge, craftsmanship and sustainable shipbuilding practices.
The project was envisioned by PM Modi and executed by the Indian Navy with the support of naval architects, archaeologists, and traditional shipbuilding designers.
