​Beyond the optics, Pg6

Key Highlights:

• PM Modi visited Jordan, Ethiopia, and Oman, strengthening bilateral ties and India's role in the Global South.
• The Cooperation Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) was signed with Oman, boosting trade which has already doubled to $10 billion.
• India and Jordan launched cooperation agreements focusing on renewable energy and water management.
• A strategic partnership was initiated with Ethiopia, emphasizing trade, technology exchange, and scheduling the Africa-India summit.

Detailed Insights:

• The visit aimed to solidify India's leadership within the Global South by engaging with key development partners in their respective regions.
• CEPA with Oman is expected to facilitate future free trade agreement discussions between India and the Gulf Cooperation Council.
• Discussions with Ethiopia included its role as the African Union headquarters and its new membership in BRICS, especially with India chairing in 2026.
• Talks in Jordan addressed the West Asian conflict and the Gaza Peace proposal, amidst tensions impacting the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.
• India's support for the Palestinian cause, reiterated during the visit, seeks to reassure Arab leaders and the Global South of its consistent stance.
• The joint statement with Oman stressed the necessity of resolving the situation in Gaza, including establishing a "sovereign and independent Palestinian state".

Key Concepts Involved:

• Global South: Refers to countries with socio-economic and political challenges, primarily in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
• CEPA (Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement): A type of free trade agreement that covers a wider range of areas than just tariffs.
• BRICS: An acronym denoting an association of five major emerging economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.