Ancient Trade Routes: The Journey of INS Kaundinya

Good afternoon. The best way to start a Friday afternoon event is with technical glitches. So I guess that is sorted. We are going to have a good event now. Very good afternoon. Thank you so much Excellencies, dear colleagues for joining us for what is actually more than anything feel good journey that all of us are going to be taking today in the warm waters of Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. That it comes on Friday as I just mentioned would hopefully set the tone for everyone to have a very great and as they say a chill weekend from the Indian Navy. We have today with us the sailors who were on board the Insv Condy that sailed from India to Oman and back at the start of this year. I would like to very warmly welcome Commodore Amit Srivastava, Commander Hemant Kumar and Commander Vikas Sharon. Without taking any more time I would like to request the permanent representative of India, Ambassador P. Harish to kindly start the event with his opening remarks. Sir, the floor is yours.

Thank you Raghu. Dear friends, Excellencies, distinguished guests. Big shout out to Commodore Amit Srivastava, Commander Kumar and Commander Shuran for your presence here. Thank you for coming all the way from India to be part of this function. A very warm welcome to you all. Friends, it's a Friday afternoon and I especially acknowledge your kind presence here

and

especially all my colleague ambassadors PRs for your presence. This is an important occasion. We are having a daily discussion about a certain kind of a maritime crisis that is impacting us, our nations and our citizens. Yet we also have centuries old traditions or maritime traditions of peaceful trade and commerce exchanges that have survived centuries and we have had and you will see a glimpse of what it means to revive these. To go over the technology of those times and to mull over the traditions that have survived these centuries and what it has done to bring our nations and our peoples together between India and our brothers and sisters in the Gulf at the outset. Again let me thank my dear brother Omar, the Permanent representative of Oman for his cooperation in putting together today's event. I'm truly glad that so many of you have joined here. The External Affairs Minister of India was here this Monday, this week in this building and he inaugurated an exhibition on India's contributions to the field of mathematics. The exhibition is still on at the delegates entrance and I would encourage you to go have a look at speaks of how ideas travel from India to Arabia and from their own to other parts of the world. And how the Arabic mathematicians took ideas of zero and infinity and various other mathematical systems from India to the rest of the world. The question is, how did mathematics go outward from India? Some of it, of course, went via land. Yet we should not forget the importance of Indian merchants and Arab traders who sailed between the Malabar coast, the Gulf and the Red Sea. For centuries. The practical mathematics, numerals, weights, measures, arithmetic, spread through these merchant and commercial networks, organically carried by traders who needed them for their efficient calculation. Mathematics was not the only export the sailors took with themselves. They loaded their ships with spices and silk, various other goods from India from as early as the first millennium bce These sea routes have linked the Indian civilization with Southeast Asia, the Arabian Peninsula and East Africa. They were not just trade routes. They were pathways for exchange of ideas, languages, culture and knowledge. They were among the earliest examples of nations reaching out to one another in peace. And it is indeed unique that we gather here today in an institution built on the very principles that ancient mariners practiced long before the word multilateralism was ever coined. It was dialogue, it was exchange and the courage to reach across waters into the unknown. Friends, today we celebrate the voyage of Ins V Koundinya. This vessel, built using ancient stitched plank techniques without a single iron nail, has sailed the same routes that Indian Ocean traders used thousands of years ago. The crew members of Koundinya are with us. And I want to take not just to acknowledge them, but to convey our deep appreciation for what they have accomplished, which is indeed remarkable. It's not just a sailing achievement, but a reminder of what human beings are capable of when they look to the past for inspiration and act on it with courage. Today, this event also has a special dimension because of who we are sharing it with. India and Oman have a maritime relationship that goes back centuries. In 2010, Oman's own jewel of Muscat, a traditional soon ship built using the 9th century methods, made a similar historic voyage through India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Singapore. That journey, like this one of Kowdinia, showed the world that both our nations have deep roots in seafaring and a genuine commitment to keeping that heritage alive. Taken together, these two voyages are more than historical reenactments. They carry a message for today that the oceans connect us like they always have. At a time when the world is debating how to manage and protect shared ocean spaces, it's worth remembering that the peoples of our region were already doing so through trade, through trust, and through regular exchanges and contact, long before modern international law and the law of the sea actually came into being. The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea provides a legal framework for governing our oceans today. But frameworks work best when they are grounded in a genuine sense of shared purpose and in trust. Events like this one help build that sense of purpose. They remind us that the sea is a common space, one that belongs to all of us and must be protected by all of us. Once again, I am grateful to you, Brother Omar and the Permanent Mission of Oman for their close partnership. I thank our speakers, scholars and experts who have traveled here to contribute to today's discussion. The sea has always brought people together. It is doing so again today in this very room in the United Nations. Thank you.

Thank you so much, sir. Now I would request the permanent representative of the Sultanate of Oman, His Excellency Omar Al Kathiri to kindly share some words with us.

Thank you very much.

Dear brother Harish, thank you so much for this kind invitation to co host this very important side event with you. We are happy to share with you the table to brag about why the Indian Ocean such a wonderful place to all of those colleagues. I'm happy for seeing so many from the Indian Ocean and beyond. For the crew members of the Insv Condenia for being here in New York with us to share with the United nations the exceptional story of the vessel. Distinguished guests and dear colleagues. Today as we showcase with the remarkable voyage of invs we are reminded of the deep rooted and cherished relationship between our nations. One that has flourished in the heart of the Indian Ocean for centuries. The Indian Ocean has long been a cradle of civilization connecting multitude of countries across the ages. From Africa to Southeast Asia, the region has witnessed the rise and evolution of countless societies, each shaped by their desire to understand, interact and learn from one another. This vast expanse of water has not only been a geographic bridge, but also a cultural and economic conduit, inspiring connections that transcend borders and time. History teaches us that ancient human activities, movement of peoples, exchange of ideas and trades of goods laid the foundation for what would later become formal economic systems. These interactions were not merely transactional. They fostered mutual respect and curiosity, shaping the spirit of cooperation that endures today. Merchant communities, driven by ambition and necessity, honed skills such as shipbuilding, enabling them to carry weighty cargo and precious goods across the seas. Though their ingenuity and persistence. Through their ingenuity and persistence, they transform the Indian Ocean into a vibrant corridor of commerce and cultural exchange. Ancient vessels piled the waters of the Arabian Sea carrying frankincense, spices, textiles and pearls. These voyages fostered not only economic prosperity, but also mutual understanding and respect, weaving together our societies and a tapestry of Collaboration and shared destiny Omani sailors and Indian merchants navigated by the stars, braving uncertain seas to build bridges between civilizations. Ports such as Muscat Sur and Mumbai served as gateways for both commerce and cultural exchange. The enduring legacy of this maritime partnership is reflected in our languages, cuisines and traditions, reminding us that the ocean is not a barrier, but a conduit for unity and progress. Our maritime past offers valuable lessons for present and future ocean governance. The spirit of cooperation that defined Oman and India's relation inspires us to collaborate and approach managing marine resources and safeguarding biodiversity. As we often find ourselves deliberating on frameworks for the protection of the high seas, let us draw upon the wisdom of our ancestors who understood that health of the ocean is inseparable from the well being of coastal communities. Sustainable practices rooted in traditional knowledge and respect for nature continue to guide our policies. Oman and India have demonstrated that leadership in promoting responsible fisheries, combating marine pollution and supporting scientific research. By sharing expertise and fostering dialogue, we contribute to a global vision of resilient and productive oceans accessible to all and governed for the benefit of the future of generations. In this context, the recent visit by Kundani Al vessel to Oman holds a profound meaning. The historic journey is more than a ceremonial passage. It is a living testament to the enduring bonds between our nations. Kundini has crafted in the traditions of ancient shipbuilding, traced the routes once sailed by our forebears, bridging the past and present in a celebration of maritime heritage. The vessel's arrival in Oman's water last December was met with warmth and admiration, serving as a reminder of our shared history. The foundation for renewed cooperation. Kwindinia's voyage underscores the importance of cultural exchange and fostering trust, innovation and resilience. It invites us to honor the legacy of those who came before us by working together to protect the ocean for those who will follow. As we reflect on the maritime heritage of Oman in India and lesson it teaches us that unity, respect and collaboration are key to effective ocean governance. Let us celebrate the legacy of Kundini's journey and the enduring partnership between Oman and India. May our gathering today inspire further explorations. Strengthen the bonds that unite us not only for neighbors but but as stewards of the shared maritime heritage that unite they continues to shape our destinies. I thank you for your attention.

Thank you so much, Excellency. Now it's time to hear from the crew members themselves. We have the crew members presenting us the voyage of INS V Kondinya showcasing the sail and maritime expedition retracing the ancient Indian Ocean trade routes. So, all yours. Thank you.

Thank you. Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, A very good afternoon to you all. On behalf of the Indian Navy's delegation from Team Kondinya, it is my distinct honor to be present at this august assembly today to give a brief on the project that transcends modern borders to celebrate our shared human history. This initiative centres on the revival of a remarkable maritime legacy through the sailing vessel Condenia. A vessel that serves as a living testament to the endurance of traditional knowledge and the spirit of international maritime cooperation.

Next.

India's engagement with the seas dates back millennia as recorded in the Periplus of the Eritrean Sea. In the first century, Indian ports were deeply connected to the maritime trade networks stretching from the Roman Empire to Arabia, East Africa, Southeast Asia and beyond. Importantly, much of this trade was conducted on ships built in India reflecting a sophisticated shipbuilding tradition of the nation. Next. India's maritime strength rested on a strong shipbuilding tradition. Ancient Indian texts such as the Yukti Kalpatru describes in great detail classification of ships including large ocean going vessels of considerable scale and sophistication. These accounts demonstrate existence of an intricate understanding of ship design and ship construction knowledge in India since ancient times.

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This painting is what drew the inspiration for INSV Kondinya. It's of the 5th century sail ship depicted in the Ajanta caves. An artistic impression of the types of ships that existed during those times. Based on the visual record, historical research and traditional craftsmanship, the vessel was recreated to celebrate India's enduring seafaring legacy.

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The inspiration was transformed into reality through the shared vision of the leadership of India and the Sultanate of Oman. During a bilateral engagement between the honorable Prime Minister Sri Narendra Modi and His Majesty Sultan Haytham Bin Tariq Al Said, it was decided to undertake the maiden voyage from India to Oman as a powerful symbol of the deep maritime ties connecting the two nations. Next. The concept design of INSV Kondiniya was led by the Indian Navy's naval architects. Combining historical inspiration with ship design expertise and this vessel that was constructed is approximately 69ft long, 21ft wide and about 11ft in height, weighing about 50 tons. Along with me in the team is Commander Hemant who is a naval architect and the chief designer who worked tirelessly in putting together the drawings of the ship from the image thereafter constructing the 3D model, doing the testing and he will run you through those events.

The structural integrity of Kaundenia rests on an ancient stitch shipbuilding technique to ensure historical and functional accuracy. The Indian Navy team conducted extensive research into stitching methodology used by master artisans in the Indian state of Kerala. By studying these indigenous knowledge systems, we were able to replicate the exact patterns needed to build a seaworthy vessel. This process was not only about construction. It was also a scholarly effort to document and safeguard this ancient shipbuilding technology that once connected the entire Indian Ocean rim.

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one of the project's core objectives was to scientifically validate the performance of this ancient maritime technology. We conducted extensive testing in the towing tank to analyze the hull's hydrodynamic properties. This allowed us to measure the drag, providing a quantitative basis for the efficiency of the traditional ship design. Then play the video. That's the testing in the towing tank. Next, further, we moved to the wave basin to conduct a comprehensive scientific analysis of the ship motions. By simulating several wave conditions, we were able to analyze the vessel's performance and response to dynamic forces. This rigorous testing validated the seakeeping capabilities of INSV Koundinia, ensuring that the ancient design could withstand the rigors of the actual voyage. Can I have the video?

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we also studied the vessel's rigging. The defining feature of INSV Koundinia is its square sail configuration, a traditional rigging system that has largely disappeared from the modern maritime practice. Our analysis focused on unique mechanics of managing these square sails using only wooden masts, pulleys and coir ropes. By studying and reviving these nearly lost techniques, we have successfully reconstructed a complex propulsion system that allowed us to navigate the open seas exactly as our ancestors did, relying entirely on the force of wind and the strength of natural fibers. Next, the construction of Koundinia relied entirely on natural materials to achieve water tightness and durability. We utilized traditional sealants and coconut coir for stitching. These organic materials were selected based on the traditional shipbuilding practices of the artisans. Next, the timber for the construction was sourced from the forests of Kerala. We used Indian laurel, wild jack, jackfruit and Indian teak for the construction. Each type of wood was chosen to align with the specific structural requirements of the ship. To achieve the complex curvature of the ancient hull without modern mechanical bending, we utilize the traditional steaming process. By placing the timber in a traditionally traditional steam chamber, we temporarily softened the wood's natural fibers. This phase is time sensitive. Once removed from the steam bath, the planks must be shaped very quickly to meet the exact design specifications. Next, here are some glimpses of the ship's construction. It had taken about one year, eight months to build the ship. On top left corner is master artisan Sri Babu Shankaran who is preparing the ship's keel. As we move to the right we can see the first planks being stitched bottom up from the keel to the side shell of the ship. The stitching pattern on the underwater hull can be clearly seen in the bottom of the slide. Once the hull was fully stitched, ropes made of coconut coir and wooden pulleys were used in the rigging. Next this image showcases a functional replica of a stone anchor with a design dating back roughly 5,000 years to the Harappan civilization which has been provided on Koundinya. As shown, the anchor is lowered using a coir rope and features wooden flukes to facilitate penetration. We have successfully deployed this anchor on the stitch ship and it works perfectly well to hold the 50 ton ship in position. Next Extensive training was provided by the Indian Navy to the crew to handle this unique square sail ship and to respond to any emergencies during the voyage. Next Now I'll take you through the maiden voyage which was from the state of Gujarat to Muscat and then back to Mumbai. Next the voyage plan was structured into two primary legs to demonstrate the practical viability of the stitch ship design. The first leg from India to Oman covered 836 nautical miles and the return leg to Mumbai spanned 979 nautical miles. Completing this 1,800 nautical mile circuit without modern propulsion demonstrates effectiveness of traditional maritime systems and confirms that these ancient engineering methods remain structurally sound for a trans oceanic transit. Next INSV Koundinia was flagged off on 29 December 2025 from the historic port of Porbandar by the Indian Navy in the presence of the Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to India. Next Every day with sunrise we used to all get together and strategize for the day. We used to assess the winds, currents and the progress made during the past 24 hours. Next this footage captures the vessel experiencing severe sea conditions, demonstrating the resilience of the stitched plank hull. Please play the video. The endurance of these traditional joints under such dynamic stress is a key finding of this scientific endeavor, successfully validating the structural reliability of this ancient shipbuilding practice. Next this video captures the efficacy of the ship construct and design even during the extensive tropical rains. This picture captures the vessel in a dead calm where the absence of wind leaves us entirely reliant on the ocean currents to navigate. Managing such conditions while maintaining the vessel's position is is a critical part of this undertaking. Mirroring the exact challenges faced by the ancient mariners successfully navigating these nil wind days Using currents is a testimony to our ancestors who mastered the art of using the ocean's natural flow when the sails could not be used. Next. This video captures the demanding manual evolution of hoisting the sails under the COVID of darkness. The audience would be aware that we operate under red light conditions to preserve night vision while managing the complex rigging network. You can play the video. The sheer physical effort required to trim the sails was a challenging experience. Some glimpses of the life on board. Next. One of the main activity on board was cooking, which also directly affects the morale on board. The fresh ration lasted for four to five days, after which we relied on food based on dry rations and ready to eat meals. Next, we had the option of sleeping on the deck or inside the ship using mattresses or sleeping bags. Some of us personally preferred to sleep on the deck under the stars and also keep a lookout from time to time. Next. Dolphins used to come really close to our ship. Play the video.

Crazy. Next.

We were greeted by bioluminescence close to the Omani coast. Play once more. Next. And of course there are beautiful sunrises and sunset throughout the voyage. Next. Beautiful moonrise which we often forget living in cities. Next. Kaundinya arrived in Muscat to a Grand welcome on the 14th of January 2025 after 18 days at sea. Next. The ship was welcomed by the Union Minister of Shipping Sri Sarvanand Sonawal and His Excellency Azan Al Basaidi, Undersecretary of Tourism of Oman. Next. Traditional Indian and Omani cultural performances were held during the official welcome ceremony. Next. Kaundinya was flagged off for her written leg to India on 8th February 2026. Next. The written voice to India took about 22 days of sailing. Kaundinya finally arrived on March 2nd at Mumbai successfully completing India Oman expedition. This is steam condonia that actually sailed on the ship. Thank you.

So much Commander. Thank you so much Commodore. Thank you so much Commander for these very fascinating and illuminating presentations. It just goes on to show how much the ocean gives and how vast it is and how amazing it is and testament to your training and to the practice that you reach safe and sound made the journey both ways. We do now have a video showing the warmth with which the ship was received when it arrived on the shores of Muscat. So I just request if that video can be played a short video about the arrival of the the ship

Sultan Kabu port in Matrah received the sailing ship calia after a 15 day voyage. The ship Calia was Built using ancient Indian shipbuilding techniques without the use of modern nails or metal fastenings, Its design is inspired by ships that once sailed across the Indian Ocean, carrying traders, sailors and scholars. These ships historically connected the western coast of India with Omani ports such as Muscat and Suhar, which served as vital hubs for trade and cultural exchange, linking South Asia with the Arabian Peninsula and East Africa.

Very happy to see the event today. You know, relationship between India And Oman goes 5,000 years. But today something happening which is very unique and I think we are all looking forward to that. This type of projects should come up more and more between two countries to become more brotherly ties become stronger.

Choosing Oman as a destination for the ship's first voyage carries deep symbolic significance for Oman, a nation deeply rooted in maritime traditions. The arrival of this ship revives its historic role as a maritime and trading power. For India. The voyage reflects a conscious effort to ground contemporary diplomacy in historical experience, highlighting people to people ties that develop organically through trade, trust and shared knowledge.

It feels really honored to be here in beautiful place of Oman. Our relations with the Indian Omani relations go back a long time and it's.

They are still very strong.

So I'm very happy that I've.

It's my first visit to Oman, but I'm not sure, I'm sure it's not the last visit.

This relationship between Oman and India has

now reached a new height with the

recent visit of the Prime Minister of India.

They signed the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. And now a boat which is made out of no steel, no nails, no machine, no boat, no, no motor inside. 1500 years old, you know, technology used.

And coming to Oman, it shows the cultural relationship between the two countries as well.

By retracing ancient maritime trade routes, Kaundinha transforms history into a living bridge between the past and the present. Its journey to Oman serves as a reminder that the strength of relations between the two countries lies not only in modern agreements and strategic interests, but also in centuries of maritime interaction that continue to shape their partnership.

We also have the Deputy Permanent Representative for Maritime affairs and Continental Shelf of the Permanent Mission of the Sultanate of Oman, Dr. Adnan Al Azri, who will be making a presentation as well on strategic marine scientific cooperation between the two countries. Ambassador, please.

Thank you very much, Excellency, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen. As it was highlighted earlier, the importance of these voyages is the scientific cooperation. Allow me to shed the light on this cooperation between the two countries. The Sultanate of Oman and India share a long standing maritime relationship grounded in geography, history and mutual engagement across the Indian Ocean. Over time, this relationship has evolved into a forward looking partnership centered on marine scientific cooperation, contributing to sustainable ocean governance, regional stability and advancement of scientific knowledge. This collaboration is increasingly structured, strategic and aligned with the global multilateral frameworks including those of the United nations and and United Nations Convention of Law of the Sea. The maritime region linking the Sultanate of Oman in India, particular across the Arabian Sea and the India Ocean in general, constitutes one of the most strategically significant ocean spaces in the world. This area supports critical global trade routes, sustains ocean spaces, rich biodiversity and and underpin the livelihood of millions. At the same time, it faces mounting pressure from climate change, environmental degradation and increasing maritime activities. In this context, marine scientific research has become indispensable. It provide a foundation for evidence based policy making, enable systemal resource management and strengthen resilience to environmental and climatic change. Excellency Distinguished Delegates Operation cooperation between the Sultanate of Oman and India anchored in joint research activity in oceanographic missions. Collaborative initiatives including the deployment of India research vessels such as INS Sagar Dhwani, forv Sagar Sampada and Sagar Kanye, which had a privilege to be on board of the Saga Kanye under the framework of Sagar Maitre Initiative have facilitated joint oceanographic observations, scientific data exchange and direct engagement between researchers of both countries. This mission have significantly enhanced the shared understanding of ocean circulation pattern, the monsoon dynamic marine ecosystem and environmental variability in Northern Indian Ocean, in particular the issues of the dynamic of the southwest monsoon and cyclone in Arabian Sea. Such cooperation not only advances scientific knowledge but also promotes interoperability and shared access to marine data in line with the international legal framework governing marine scientific research. Beyond bilateral activities, the Sultanate of Oman in India actively engage in regional international scientific platform to align research purity and strengthen the interface between science and policy. These scientific collaborations have yielded tangible outcome and recognition in acknowledgement of both sides of the Arabian Seas. Collaboration has continued to expand at both institutional individual levels. In my personal capacity, I was honored to receive recognition from NASA for our research in Arabian Sea which was ranked among the top seven papers published in first quarter 2014. This engagement reflects a broader commitment to cooperative regionally informed approach to ocean governance consisted with principle of multilateralism. At a multilateral level, cooperation between the Sultanate of Oman and India is firmly anchored in the principle and purposes of United Nations Charter, particularly the promotion of an international cooperation to address global scientific, economic and environmental challenges. It also advances the objective of United Nations Convention of Law of the Sea, notably under part 13 on marine scientific research and part 14 on the development and transfer of marine technology. This provision calls upon states to undertake research to peaceful purposes, strengthen the capacity of developed countries and facilitate the sharing of data and scientific knowledge for the collective benefit of the international community. Through their joint initiatives, the Sultanate of Oman in India translate this commitment into concrete action, thereby contributing to the strengthening of the international legal framework governing the oceans. In closing, the Sultanate of Omani India Partnership in maritime scientific research reflect not only shared commitment to the responsible stewardship of ocean resources, but also underscored the indispensable role of cooperation in addressing the increasing complex challenges facing the world ocean both now in the years to come. Thank you.

Thank you so much, sir. We'll now hear from the National Museum of Oman who will be who are joining us from with a pre recorded video highlighting the maritime history between the two nations. Can we have the video please?

For thousands of years, the waters of the Indian Ocean have carried more than ships. They have carried civilizations across these waters. Between the rugged mountains and coastlines of Oman and the vast shores of the Indian subcontinent, a remarkable relationship began to take shape. One built on trade, movement, shared ideas and human connection. Its origins stretch deep into antiquity. More than 4,000 years ago, ancient Oman, known to Mesopotamian civilizations as Mgan, was already a land of strategic importance. Rich in copper, a resource that powered the ancient world, Oman became part of a growing network of exchange linking distant civilizations. Archaeological discoveries suggest contact between Oman and the Indus Valley civilization, revealing that even in prehistory, these regions were far from isolated. The ancient world was more connected than we often imagine, and Oman stood at the heart of that connection. As centuries passed, trade transformed this early contact into something far greater. Indian merchants brought spices, textiles, timber, beads and crafted goods across the sea. From Oman came copper, frankincense, dates and prized Arabian horses. But trade is never only about objects. Where goods travel, stories follow, ideas move, languages mingle, people settle, adapt and leave their mark. Across the Indian Ocean, commerce became culture and culture became connection. By the Islamic era, Oman sports had become some of the most dynamic crossroads in the region. Muscat and Suhar filled with activity. Ships arriving with cargo, merchants negotiating in bustling markets. Communities from different parts of the world living and working side by side. Indian merchants became part of this landscape, contributing not only to economic life, but to the cultural fabric of Omani society. What allowed such relationships to endure was more than geography. It was openness. Throughout its history, Oman became known as a meeting place where cultures interacted, where exchange was welcomed, and where coexistence allowed communities of different backgrounds and beliefs. To thrive. And always there was the sea. For Omani sailors, the Indian Ocean was not an unknown frontier. It was a well read map of winds, tards and seasonal rhythms. Mastering moonswound patterns and celestial navigation, they crossed these waters long before modern technology made such journeys routine. The sea did not divide Oman and India, it united them. Today, the evidence of this shared history remains all around us. In archaeological discoveries in ancient trade, objects in manuscripts and maritime artifacts. Each piece offers a glimpse into a world shaped by exchange and encounter. And some stories have been brought back to life. The Jewel of Muscat, a reconstruction of a 9th century trading vessel, retraced ancient sea routes, turning historical research into living experience. These are not simply commemorations of of the past. They are reminders that history still moves. From the copper roots of ancient Magan to the thriving ports of the Islamic world, to modern culture collaboration, the story of Oman in India continues. A story not just of trade, but of movement, of coexistence, of civilizations shaped by the current of the sea and by the people bold enough to cross it.

Indeed, It was the people who were bold enough to cross these seas that the world is a much smaller and shorter place. And why we are talking to each other today, we have with us three people who were bold enough to go into uncharted waters, at least not as it is normally done. So we have the floor open now for questions, queries, comments, and any sort of interaction that you like to have with them, with each other on the topic. The floor is all yours, Excellencies. Dear colleagues, thank you.

Since Oman and India are neighbors across the oceans, I'm also a neighbor with Mozambique here, so I'll shift over to his mic. Thank you so much, Excellency, for this brilliant presentation. Okay, thank you for these brilliant presentations. We are delighted to see such ancient roots of cooperation. Mine is really just to speak about the importance of the blue economy, maritime economy, and the safety of the oceans, as well as the health of the oceans. So, so my question would be, in what ways are the two governments working together and perhaps across the seafarers and the different associations there, how are you working together to ensure the health of the oceans or the seas between the countries that you have the Indian Ocean and you have the Arabian Sea? So what kind of cooperation exists to ensure, if anybody here knows on the health of the oceans and even perhaps within the context of the multilateral context? Thank you so much.

I think both India, Oman, within our own jurisdictions, are doing everything possible to take care of the pollution in the oceans, make it plastic Free ensure that the that the pollution from microplastics is contained to the minimum. I think there is also a lot of effort in using the international treaties available, the BB&J which we have signed in the process of ratifying. And I think this is a collective endeavor for all of us. I think the oceans are a resource. But again sustainability is key and we know we will not be meeting the SDG targets for 2030 and it is a challenge for all of us. But we remain committed to seeing all we can to meet our 2030 targets and see how best we can take it forward beyond 2030. But that is a key challenge.

Thank you for your question. Since you mentioned the issue for Blue economy, let me start by putting this statement. The relation between India and Oman. We're sharing a body of water which is Arabian Sea. And the fact being being on the both side of this body of water, you know the famous expression when they said what goes around comes around. Because if you don't watch that body of water, I mean both country will be impacted. One of the issue is the southwest monsoon because of the climate change is strengthening year after year. And the second thing we have the cyclone, it depends where you are or the hurricanes. These are mother nature forces that had shaped both countries that really scientists were pushed to get closer research. And I mentioned one of the research vessels, Sagacanya. I had opportunity to be on board. And what you are doing is just running this kind of research, you know, to make sure that that body of water, it's is sustainable in terms of fisheries, in terms of tourism, in terms of transportation, in terms of. And is the body of water which kills a lot of necessity that we use today like the sea bottom of sea cables and all kind of stuff. So just short, you know the answer. Thank you, thank you.

First of all, my apologies for being late. But that's the tragedy. You have to make a statement and it's not your turn. So I miss half of the presentations. But many, many thanks for having us here today to mission of India Oman. It was particularly nice to see some reflection of the museum in Muscat. I've been there before and it's very beautiful. What comes to my mind is we all have a very centric history. You know I come from a Roman city and I remember Indian, Indian objects in the museum and this trade route was really very important. I remember the Pliny, Pliny the older, the famous writer, he said we have to stop this trade, it's costing us a fortune. So I think this is such an Important part of world history, connected to the Roman Empire all the way to Cologne and to Belgium, where I grew up. So I was asking myself, maybe you've addressed it, but we have this idea of the immaterial world heritage by UNESCO. I mean this trading, connecting nation. Have you ever thought of getting that into the UNESCO context?

I think you have given a new idea, Thomas. I must acknowledge we have looked at intangible heritage submissions to UNESCO on various things, including food and customs, festivals, cultural festivals, but I haven't. I'm not sure, maybe I'm wrong, but I don't think we have the idea of submitting a maritime tradition itself. What this entails, I don't know. I'll have to talk to my colleague, the PR in Paris, to UNESCO to find out whether it is possible and how it can be done. But this is a fantastic idea. And frankly speaking, it is one of the oldest heritage of humanity. Maritime trade took everything. You know, we used to get pearls from the Gulf, send silk and spices, and went all the way to Rome and beyond. I think it's. You have given a good idea. Thank you.

Thank you very much. Thank you for a wonderful presentation. Honestly, I don't have a question. I just want to say this reminded me of home. You know, for until mid 20th century, our national currency was the rupee. Because of the trade and the history that we've had with India and throughout the Gulf, all of us, the, the connection there and from us to the rest of the world, because the, the land route went from Kuwait to Syria and onto the Mediterranean from there. So this traditional trading route was essential to our development, to our culture, to our heritage, to our cuisine. The, the ship reminds me of the ship in front of our house in Kuwait. It looks the same. The techniques that you use are the same. So I, I'm. This is very exciting for me, so very. Thank you very much for organizing this and for giving us a little taste of, of the cultural bonds between Oman and India, both brotherly countries to us.

Since we do not have India any further speakers, we'd like to close. Thank you so much, Excellencies, colleagues, for joining us today for what has been a fantastic event. If there are any closing remarks, Sir?

No, nothing. I just want to take the occasion to say that one of the inspiration for us to organize this was to look for things which are also the mandate of the un to see things that bind us. Of course, there are a lot of things that do divide us, but the number of things that bind us are even more. And as we have live examples of colleagues who have actually created this ship, sailed and traveled on. Also was an occasion, as brother Tariq said, a way to bring all of us together to think about it and to think we have a lot to keep. We have a lot to preserve. We have a lot to work together to go forward. So thank you very much for your presence. It means a lot to us. Thank you once again. Have a great weekend.