Admiral Prakash, who visited a few places including the Sultanate's premier naval base, said he was impressed by the progress and development achieved by the Sultanate. As for the navies of the two countries, there are many activities which are of interest to both, he said, and "it is because of this that they should work together closely for common good and friendship." Brigadier Saud Suleiman Al Habsi underlined the excellent defense relations enjoyed by Oman and India. Earlier, Sayyid Badr bin Saud bin Hareb, Oman's Minister for Defense Affairs, received Admiral Prakash and at a meeting between them matters of joint interest for the two countries were reviewed. There are many other programmes lined up this month to mark the celebrations, including the visit of Indian Defense Minister Pranab Mukherjee. --SPA 14 17 Local Time 11 17 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/337065