India’s position in the Western and Southern Indian Ocean region to be strengthened
Muscat, Oman – The Oman Government has allocated India a specific zone to India within the Port of Duqm in Oman, which is considered to be of strategic importance. This is expected to make it easier for India to trade through the Persian Gulf. This decision was taken after the Sultan of Oman, Haitham bin Tariq, visited India about 2 months ago. This will help strengthen India’s position in the Western and Southern Indian Ocean region. It can also help the Indian Navy play a bigger role in the ongoing crisis in the Red Sea and the Western Indian Ocean region.
Why is Duqm Port so important ?
Duqm Port is located directly west of Mumbai. This means that India can easily transport its goods overland from Duqm Port in Oman to Saudi Arabia and beyond. It will also be possible to counter the attacks of the Houthi rebels in the areas bordering the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea. Recent violence in the region has had a negative impact on maritime trade.
How will the Oman port benefit India ?
Duqm Port in Oman will help India with logistics in the field of maritime cooperation. The port will be easily accessible to shipping lines that cater to Indian and African markets.
Ship repair facility also available
The Duqm Port Special Economic Zone has a ship repair facility. This means that ship repair work can also be done easily. The port is located 550 km south of the Omani capital Muscat. Duqm is easily accessible by road from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.