Sohail Khan
Srinagar, Kashmir
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent three-nation tour, which includes Jordan, Oman and Ethiopia, marks a decisive and historic turning point in India’s foreign policy. The visit not only reinvigorated India’s relations with the Arab and Gulf world, but also solidified Prime Minister Modi as a global leader whose leadership is respected across civilizations, religions and regions.
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Prime Minister Modi was received in the Jordanian capital Amman by King Abdullah II, who is a direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in the 41st line. Addressing the India-Jordan Business Forum, King Abdullah openly praised India’s remarkable economic growth under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership and expressed hope for the establishment of an economic corridor between the two countries that would connect South Asia with the Middle East, Africa and Europe. This recognition is not just a diplomatic phrase but a clear expression of India’s growing position in the global economy.
An unusual and symbolic aspect of the visit was the personal conduct of the Jordanian Crown Prince. He personally drove Prime Minister Modi to the Jordan Museum and later drove him to the airport to see him off. This gesture, which went beyond diplomatic etiquette, was a sign of the respect and trust that the Arab leadership felt for Prime Minister Modi’s personality and leadership. Such moments are rare in history and are an extraordinary honor for any leader.
On a practical level too, the visit was very fruitful. India and Jordan finalized important agreements in areas such as culture, renewable energy, water management, digital public infrastructure and preservation of historical heritage. The establishment of twinning cultural ties between Patra and Ellora gives new meaning to the ancient ties of the two civilizations in the modern era. Prime Minister Modi’s proposal to increase bilateral trade to $5 billion in the next five years is a manifestation of his practical thinking in economic diplomacy.
Prime Minister Modi was also accorded a grand welcome in Oman. He was conferred with the Order of Oman First Class, the highest civilian honour of the Sultanate of Oman, by Sultan Haitham bin Tariq. With this honour, Prime Minister Modi joined the ranks of world figures including Queen Elizabeth II and Nelson Mandela. This is the 29th international honour bestowed on Prime Minister Modi, and it is particularly noteworthy that five out of the six Arab countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council have so far conferred their highest civilian honours on him.
The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and Oman has been a historic development in the economic arena. This is the second such agreement by Oman in the last two decades, which shows that Oman views India as a reliable and long-term partner. Under this agreement, Indian exports will enjoy zero duty on over 98% of Oman’s tariff lines, which will greatly benefit the textile, jewellery, engineering products, pharmaceuticals, agriculture and automobile sectors. It will also create new opportunities for MSMEs, artisans and women-led industries.
In the past, there was a common perception that relations between India and the Arab world might cool down after Prime Minister Modi came to power, but the ground reality has proven all these concerns wrong. Today, the Arab world is not only establishing close relations with India but is also showering Prime Minister Modi with extraordinary respect and trust. This is evidence that under his leadership, India has successfully harmonized its cultural identity, economic power and diplomatic balance.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Arab diplomacy is a reflection of a broader global vision, in which respect, partnership and mutual development are central. His leadership has elevated India from a mere regional power to a responsible and respected global power. This trust and acceptance in the Arab world will have far-reaching consequences for India in the years to come, not only economically but also culturally and diplomatically.
Today, there is no doubt that we have excellent relations with the Muslim world. Prime Minister Modi’s Arab policy, supported by personal connections, energy and enthusiasm with Arab leaders, has set new standards in India-Arab relations. India’s engagement is extremely strong, and our relations with Arab countries are at an all-time high. The expanding arc of India-Arab cooperation is poised to become a key component of the Asian renaissance.
