Muscat: The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) of India, Admiral Devendra Kumar Joshi, accompanied by an official delegation, visited the Sultanate from April 13 to 16, after receiving an invitation from Rear Admiral Abdullah Khamis Al Raisi, Commander of the Royal Navy of Oman (RNO). 
This was the first visit by Admiral Joshi to any of the GCC countries since he assumed charge of the Indian Navy in September 2012 and takes place in the context of the historic ties between Oman and India, which have recently been raised to the level of a strategic partnership.
Cooperation in various fields related to the defence sector has been significant between the two friendly countries for many years.
The Sultanate has actively cooperated with and supported the Indian Navy’s anti-piracy efforts in the Gulf of Aden since 2008, during which time no merchant vessel under escort by the Indian Navy has ever been captured by pirates. Bilateral ties between the RNO and the Indian Navy are extremely close and include a regular exchange of high-level visits, navy-to-navy exercises, and training cooperation.
The visit of the Indian CNS to Oman was extremely significant for strengthening existing ties and exploring new areas for cooperation.
Discussions
Admiral Joshi held discussions with senior defence officials of the Sultanate and visited many units of the RNO during his stay. Both navies accepted the need to further strengthen bilateral ties and to develop the relationship to even greater levels in the years ahead.
The Indian CNS also addressed the officers and staff of the Command & Staff College, Bait Al Falaj, and shared his thoughts on “Cooperative Maritime Security in the Indian Ocean.”
He was visibly impressed by the professionalism of the RNO and overwhelmed by the warmth and traditional Omani hospitality he received during his stay.
Via: http://www.timesofoman.com/
