The Permanent Missions of Oman and India to the United Nations have jointly hosted ‘Ancient Trade Routes: The Journey of the Kaundinya,’ highlighting historic maritime ties and their continued relevance in advancing cultural exchange and sustainable ocean governance.
The event showcased the voyage of the Indian Navy sailing ship ‘Kaundinya,’ which departed Porbandar Port in Gujarat on December 29, 2025, and arrived at Sultan Qaboos Port in Muttrah on January 14, 2026.
The symbolic journey was presented as a revival of historic Indian Ocean trade routes that once connected civilizations across Asia, the Arabian Peninsula, and beyond.
HE Ambassador Omar bin Said Al Kathiri, Permanent Representative of the Sultanate of Oman to the United Nations, underscored that the voyage reflects the enduring and evolving relationship between Oman and India.
Al Kathiri noted that the partnership, shaped over centuries in the Indian Ocean, continues to flourish through shared maritime traditions and strategic cooperation.
Ambassador Al Kathiri highlighted the historical role of key ports such as Muscat, Sur, and Mumbai as vital hubs of trade and cultural exchange, which helped strengthen civilizational links between the two nations and the wider region.
Omar bin Said Al Kathiri further emphasized that the longstanding spirit of cooperation between Oman and India extends into contemporary priorities, including sustainable management of marine resources, biodiversity protection, responsible fishing practices, and efforts to combat marine pollution.
According to him, such collaboration contributes to advancing a global vision for sustainable oceans that benefit future generations.
Image via ONA | Cropped by GBN
The event also featured an address by the Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations, who reaffirmed the deep-rooted maritime and cultural relationship between India and Oman.
A presentation by the National Museum of the Sultanate of Oman included a video showcasing the historical evolution of Omani-Indian relations, emphasizing their shared cultural and civilizational heritage and its continuing relevance in modern diplomacy.
In addition, HE Dr. Adnan bin Rashid Al Azri, Deputy Permanent Representative of Oman for Continental Shelf and Maritime Affairs, highlighted ongoing bilateral cooperation in marine sciences, aquatic ecosystems, and water resource management, reflecting expanding scientific collaboration between the two countries.
A delegation from the Indian Navy and the crew of the Kaundinya also briefed attendees on the ship’s reconstruction, training process, and preparations undertaken for the voyage.
