India, Oman agree to cooperate in security, defence

Muscat [Oman]:  Recognising their common responsibility towards promoting regional peace and security, India and Oman underlined the importance of further cementing bilateral strategic engagement in the areas of security and defence.

Both countries agreed to enhance cooperation in the fields of law enforcement, anti-money laundering and prevention of smuggling of currency, drug trafficking, human trafficking, illegal migration and other transnational organised crimes.

The two sides agreed to provide further impetus to the robust defence relations, including through regular holding of joint exercises by the three defence forces, training of navy, air and army officials and cooperation in the area of coastal defence and through participation in defence exhibitions.

Expressing serious concerns at the misuse of cyber space as a medium to promote subversive and extremist ideologies, the two sides acknowledged the importance of enhancing cooperation in field of cyber security and mandated the concerned officials to hold discussions to identify avenues for cooperation.

The two countries agreed to enhance cooperation to strengthen maritime security in the Gulf and the Indian Ocean regions, vital for the security and prosperity of both countries.

They further agreed to promote bilateral collaboration for humanitarian assistance and evacuation in natural disasters and conflict situations.

Oman acknowledged the opportunities offered under the 'Make in India' initiative for joint production of defence equipment in India and also for the procurement of defence material from India. The two sides agreed to explore further opportunities in these areas of common interest.

The 'Make in India' initiative was launched by the Centre in 2014 to encourage companies to manufacture their products in India.

The objective of the initiative are- job creation and skill enhancement in 25 sectors of the economy, improving the quality standards and minimising the impact on the environment and to attract capital and technological investment in India.