Muscat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Oman's highest civilian distinction, the Order of Oman, from Sultan Haitham bin Tarik on Thursday for his "exceptional contribution" to India-Oman relations and "visionary leadership".

Modi was presented the award during his ongoing two-day Oman visit, the concluding stop of his three-nation trip encompassing Jordan and Ethiopia.

"Honoured to receive the Order of Oman (First Class). My gratitude to His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, the Government and people of Oman for this honour. This is a symbol of affection and trust between the people of India and Oman," Modi stated.

The accolade joins over 28 top civilian honours Modi has earned from foreign countries, including recent ones like Ethiopia's Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia and Kuwait's Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer.

"For centuries, our ancestors have been connected with each other, engaged in maritime trade with one another. The Arabian Sea has become a strong bridge between our nations. I dedicate this honour to the people of India. I also dedicate this honour to our ancestors who laid the foundations of this relationship by travelling from Mandvi to Muscat," Modi remarked.

He further dedicated it to seafarers whose centuries of interactions advanced both countries.

Launched in 1970 by Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the Order of Oman (First Class) salutes chosen world leaders for public service and bilateral bonds.

Modi's Muscat sojourn coincides with 70 years of India-Oman diplomatic ties, with emphasis on expanding strategic collaboration in trade, investment, energy, defence, and culture.

Modi landed on Wednesday for the two-day trip, greeted with a ceremonial guard of honour.

With inputs from PTI