Peerzada Masarat Shah:
For many years, diplomats and commentators repeated the same prediction: India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with his strong nationalist image, would never be able to build real trust with the Arab world. They believed his style would clash with the traditions and sensitivities of the Middle East. But time has shown that this prediction was not only wrong, it has been completely buried.
Modi’s recent visits to Jordan, Oman, and Ethiopia were not just ceremonial tours filled with handshakes and photographs. They were carefully planned steps in a larger strategy. India is reshaping how it deals with West Asia and beyond. The new approach is simple but powerful: put economics first, keep respect at the center, and connect history with modern partnerships.
This shift comes at a time when the world is facing economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions. Instead of being trapped by these challenges, India has turned them into opportunities. Modi’s diplomacy shows that India is no longer asking for a seat at the table—it is helping design the table itself.
Jordan: A Warm Welcome and Real Signals
In Amman, the welcome was more than just protocol. King Abdullah II praised India’s growth and stability, and he spoke of a bold idea: a trade corridor linking South Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. This was not casual talk—it was a serious vision for the future.
The Crown Prince added his own gesture that broke tradition. He personally drove Modi to the Jordan Museum and later to the airport. In diplomatic language, such actions are never random. They are signals of trust and friendship, a way of saying, “We stand with you.”
On the economic front, India and Jordan agreed to raise trade to five billion dollars within five years. This is realistic, given India’s manufacturing strength and Jordan’s strategic location. Agreements were signed on renewable energy, water management, digital infrastructure, and cultural exchange. Linking Petra and Ellora—two ancient sites—was a symbolic way of connecting civilizations while building modern cooperation.
Observers in the region noted that India is no longer approaching West Asia as a junior partner. It is entering as an equal, confident in its economic and cultural weight. Jordan’s leadership clearly recognized this.
Oman: Trust Sealed with Honors and Deals
If Jordan showed warmth, Oman showed trust. Sultan Haitham bin Tarik awarded Modi the Order of Oman (First Class), one of the country’s highest civilian honors. This placed Modi in rare company, alongside figures like Nelson Mandela. It was not just a medal for display—it was a recognition of India’s growing importance in the Gulf.
This was Modi’s 29th major foreign honor, and five out of six Gulf countries have now given him their highest civilian awards. That is not coincidence. It reflects a shared understanding that India is becoming a central player in the region.
But the real achievement in Oman was the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Oman has signed only two such agreements in the last twenty years—the first was with the United States. The fact that India is the second shows how carefully Oman chooses its partners.
The CEPA is not just about words on paper. It removes tariffs on more than 98 percent of trade lines, opening the door for Indian exports in textiles, jewelry, pharmaceuticals, and engineering goods. It also allows full foreign ownership in key sectors and makes it easier for skilled Indian professionals to work in Oman. This means more investment, more jobs, and stronger ties between the two countries.
For India, this agreement is a breakthrough. It strengthens its presence in the Gulf and gives its industries a competitive edge. For Oman, it brings reliable partners and long-term growth. Both sides win.
Ethiopia: Extending the Strategy into Africa
Modi’s stop in Ethiopia was part of a broader plan. India is not limiting itself to the Gulf—it is connecting West Asia with Africa. In Ethiopia, agreements were signed on agriculture, technology, and trade. The goal is to double trade and encourage technology transfer.
By strengthening ties with the African Union, India is positioning itself as a bridge between regions. The corridor idea mentioned in Jordan gains more meaning when Africa is included. It is not just about connecting markets—it is about reshaping global supply chains.
Diplomacy in the Age of Social Media
In today’s world, diplomacy does not end at airports or conference halls. It continues on social media, where analysts, experts, and ordinary citizens share their views instantly.
One Middle East analyst wrote that the India-Oman CEPA is not just about reducing costs—it is built on trust and long-term vision. An African trade expert commented that the corridor idea could transform global trade routes, calling it “smart and ambitious.” A European diplomat compared India’s current moves in the Gulf to Europe’s strategy in Asia during the 1990s, when respect and partnership opened doors.
The message across these platforms is clear: India is no longer knocking politely on doors. It is helping build the house.
Ending the Old Myth
The old story that Modi’s nationalist style would alienate the Arab world has collapsed. Instead, the region has responded with warmth, honors, and serious partnerships.
Why has this happened? Because India’s approach is not about ideology or lectures. It is about practical deals, mutual respect, and shared benefits. In a region tired of being told what to do, India’s style of “let’s talk business” feels refreshing.
Modi also understands the importance of cultural intelligence. He highlights shared history, respects traditions, and values the Indian diaspora in the Gulf. This combination of respect and pragmatism works well in societies that balance tradition with modern progress.
One Gulf insider summarized it simply: “India doesn’t come preaching. It comes with plans—and with respect.” That formula is proving successful.
Looking Ahead: India’s Larger Ambition
Modi’s moves in the Gulf are not side projects. They are central to India’s global ambitions. The warm welcomes in Amman and Muscat show that the path is open. The agreements signed will strengthen India’s “Make in India” initiative and give its industries new markets.
Geopolitically, India is positioning itself as a balanced player in the Middle East, able to engage with both the United States and China while maintaining its own independent role. Challenges remain, such as the Israel-Palestine conflict and regional instability. But India’s flexible strategy gives it room to adapt.
The corridor linking South Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe could reshape global trade. If successful, it would place India at the center of a new economic map.
Conclusion: A New Chapter in Diplomacy
Modi’s recent tour marks the beginning of a new chapter. The old doubts have been buried. In their place stands a stronger, more confident India, building partnerships based on economics, respect, and cultural understanding.
India is no longer waiting for recognition—it is creating new realities. The Gulf is not just a partner; it is a gateway to Africa and Europe. The honors, agreements, and gestures of trust show that India has arrived as a central player in global diplomacy.
This story is still unfolding, but its direction is clear. India has moved beyond old myths and entered a new era of diplomacy—one where economics, respect, and shared history combine to shape the future.
