His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik gave an audience to Michael R Pompeo, Secretary of State of the United States of America, at Al Barakah Palace on August 27.

The meeting reviewed aspects of existing bilateral cooperation between the sultanate and the USA within the framework of the strong relations binding the two countries, in addition to reviewing matters of mutual interest between the two sides.

Commenting on his visit, Pompeo tweeted, “Omani people are so warm and generous. I’m grateful for our strong partnership. Thanks to Omani (HM) Sultan Haitham bin Tarik for our steadfast friendship.”

He added that the talks focused “on the importance of building regional peace, stability and prosperity through a united Gulf Cooperation Council. Grateful for our strong security partnership and economic ties”.

In a statement, Morgan Ortagus, spokesperson for the US State Department, said, “The Secretary thanked (HM) the Sultan for Oman’s role in advancing peace and stability in the Gulf and the two discussed the importance of a united Gulf Cooperation Council to advance prosperity in the region. They also discussed their shared commitment to bolstering the US-Oman bilateral economic partnership.”