New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a three-nation tour covering Jordan, Ethiopia and Oman from 15 to 18 December, in what officials describe as a significant diplomatic outreach spanning West Asia and Africa. According to sources, the visit will see the Prime Minister traverse two continents in just three days, underlining India’s intensified engagement with key regional partners.
Modi’s journey will begin in Jordan on 15–16 December, followed by a stop in Ethiopia on 16–17 December, concluding with an official visit to Oman from 17–18 December. The multi-nation tour is part of New Delhi’s ongoing efforts to deepen political, economic and strategic ties across emerging geographies.
Strengthening India’s regional footprint
India has been steadily expanding its diplomatic presence across West Asia and Africa, regions seen as vital for energy security, trade, and geopolitical cooperation. The upcoming trip is expected to focus on discussions around connectivity, defence, investment, technology partnerships and socio-cultural cooperation.
Officials noted that these high-level visits reflect the government’s commitment to fostering long-term engagement with countries that play an important role in regional stability and global supply chains.
Context: A year of active diplomacy
The three-nation tour comes on the heels of Modi’s participation in the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, where India reiterated the importance of inclusive growth, digital transformation and Global South priorities.
Shortly after the G20 Summit, Modi undertook a two-day visit to Bhutan, marking his first official trip to the neighbouring Himalayan nation since its new government took office. During the visit, he met King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, discussing ways to enhance cooperation in energy, infrastructure, education and cultural sectors.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) described India–Bhutan relations as “a unique and enduring partnership rooted in mutual trust, understanding and goodwill.” The Prime Minister was warmly received at Tashichho Dzong, where both sides reaffirmed the value of their shared cultural and spiritual heritage.
Focus of the upcoming tour
While specific agenda details for the visits to Jordan, Ethiopia and Oman have not yet been officially announced, officials expect the discussions to focus on expanding bilateral cooperation, regional security concerns, food and energy partnerships, and exploring new avenues for economic engagement.
Jordan is a key partner for India in West Asia, with cooperation expanding in defence, counterterrorism, fertilisers and people-to-people ties. Ethiopia, one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies, remains an important partner in trade, agriculture and capacity building. Oman, meanwhile, is a longstanding strategic partner with deep maritime, energy and diaspora links.
Reinforcing ties in West Asia and Africa
The visit is seen as part of India’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence across regions that are critical for geopolitical stability and economic opportunities. As India positions itself as a bridge between the Global North and the Global South, sustained high-level engagement is expected to remain a key pillar of its foreign policy.
Modi’s tour to Jordan, Ethiopia and Oman is likely to reinforce India’s role as an active global player, building on recent diplomatic milestones and extending its outreach to nations across continents.