Port of Duqm:
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The Port of Duqm is strategically located situated on south eastern seaboard of Oman, overlooking Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean.
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It is straddled along critical sea lanes in Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden.
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It is located in close proximity to Chabahar port in Iran ( being developed by India to open a trade route to Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan) and Gwadar Port in Pakistan which is developed by China as part of CPEC (China–Pakistan Economic Corridor).
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The port also has special economic zone, where about $1.8 billion investments are being made by some Indian companies.
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Why in news?
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India has secured access to key strategic Port of Duqm in Oman in Arabian sea for military use and logistical support.
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India has signed an agreement to access this for naval military use and for commercial use (by Adani group)
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Significance:
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It will further expand India’s footprint in the Indian Ocean region (IOR).
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This will strengthen India’s maritime strategy to counter Chinese influence and activities in the region.
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The access to Duqm port fits into India’s proactive maritime security roadmap along with development string of military facilities at Assumption Island in Seychelles and Agalega in Mauritius to counter China’s increasing presence.
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It also recognizes India and Oman’s common responsibility towards promoting regional peace and security.
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It will further cement bilateral strategic engagement especially in the areas of security and defence between both countries.