The two sides discussed the regional security situation resulting from the Gaza conflict, including in the Red Sea, the officials noted. 

From India's perspective, the focus lies on securing reduced tariffs on exports to Oman, spanning an array of sectors including rice, pharmaceuticals, petroleum, and steel. Additionally, India aims to facilitate easier access for its professionals, including doctors, nurses, engineers, and other skilled workers, into the Omani market.

"Everyone wants to do an FTA with India. The main reason for this is India's high import duties, which make it difficult for these countries to access India's large and rapidly growing market," the report said. It added that these three pacts with UK, Oman, and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) also reflect a shift in India's focus from east to west in terms of preferential trade partnerships.

The imminent signing of the India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) is strategically timed, with efforts underway to conclude the agreement prior to India's forthcoming general elections, which are expected to be announced imminently.

"The negotiations are progressing well. Two rounds of in-person negotiations and many inter-sessional meetings have already been held. Good progress has been made on all the chapters covered under the CEPA," the official affirmed.