India and Oman have engaged in meaningful discussions regarding space cooperation, encompassing various elements such as space-based systems, data services, and information exchange.
On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, the Sultan of Oman, highlighted the importance of expanding collaboration in space. “The focus areas include remote sensing, satellite launch, communication, and the practical applications of space technology,” Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra in a special briefing following the talks between the two leaders said in response to a question.
According to a joint statement issued on Saturday, during their discussions, the leaders expressed appreciation for recent bilateral interactions, recognizing the vast potential for collaboration.
The shared interest between India and Oman underscores the importance of joint efforts in space exploration, with a specific focus on capacity building, satellite technology, and the practical applications that can benefit both nations.
This cooperative approach signifies a significant step towards mutual growth and advancement in space capabilities for India and Oman, fostering a stronger bond in the exploration and utilization of outer space.
The Gulf nation’s collaboration with India in space exploration is driven by the desire to tap into India’s proven expertise, share resources, and foster the development of Omani space capabilities through international cooperation.
Why Space Cooperation with India?
According to a former top diplomat: “Firstly, India has demonstrated expertise in space technology, with a successful space programme led by the ISRO. And, partnering with India allows the Gulf nation to leverage this experience and benefit from established capabilities in satellite development, launch services, and space applications.”
Additionally, “collaborative efforts provide Oman access to shared resources, such as remote sensing data and satellite technology, contributing to developing its space capabilities.”
By engaging with India, Oman can potentially reduce costs and accelerate its progress in space exploration without having to build all the necessary infrastructure independently.