Modi in Oman: Honoring 1971 loyalty, sealing FTA

• PM Modi is set to visit Oman, Jordan, and Ethiopia next week, with the Oman visit scheduled for December 17-18.
• The visit to Oman acknowledges its crucial support for India during the 1971 war, when it stood against the global diplomatic environment.
• An India-Oman Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is expected to be signed, boosting trade in textiles, gems, jewelry, and machinery.
• The FTA aims to strengthen India's strategic presence in Oman, particularly at Duqm Port, and counter China's influence.
• PM Modi's visits to Jordan and Ethiopia aim to strengthen ties with Muslim-majority nations, with the Ethiopia visit being a first for an Indian PM.

Why It Matters: PM Modi's Oman visit leverages historical loyalty for future strategic and economic gains.