India-Oman Trade Deal Strengthens India's West Asia Strategic Presence

सही उत्तर: B

Statement 1 is correct. Oman's Musandam Governorate is strategically positioned at the southern side of the Strait of Hormuz, making it vital for global oil trade. Statement 2 is correct. Oman is one of the six founding members of the GCC, established in 1981. Statement 3 is incorrect. India's 'West Asia strategy' is comprehensive, encompassing economic, strategic, energy security, defense, and cultural aspects, in addition to diaspora welfare and remittances. It is not limited to cultural ties and remittances.

सही उत्तर: B

Option A is incorrect because while energy security is important, the CEPA aims to diversify trade beyond traditional oil and gas. The word 'exclusively' makes it wrong. Option B is correct as the summary explicitly states the aim to deepen economic ties, diversify trade, and leverage Oman's strategic location as a gateway for Indian exports to Africa and Europe. Option C is incorrect; while defense cooperation exists, facilitating military base access is not the primary stated objective of a CEPA. Option D is incorrect as cultural exchange and tourism, though part of bilateral ties, are not the primary drivers for a comprehensive economic partnership agreement.

सही उत्तर: D

All three statements are correct. The Strait of Hormuz is a vital choke point for oil transit from the Persian Gulf. The Bab-el-Mandeb Strait is crucial for shipping between the Mediterranean Sea and the Indian Ocean, often affected by regional conflicts. The Suez Canal is an artificial waterway that significantly shortens maritime routes between Europe and Asia, making it one of the world's most important shipping lanes. These features are integral to global trade and energy security, directly impacting India's connectivity and strategic interests in West Asia.