Muscat – Dr Margarete Schrambock, Federal Minister for Digital and Economic Affairs of Austria, has expressed her admiration for Oman Vision 2040 and its pillars, which reflect keenness of the Omani government to make the future more bright for Omani citizens.

In an interview with ONA and Oman TV, she said that the four main pillars of Oman Vision 2040 – People and Society, Economy and Development, Governance and Institutional Performance, and Environment Sustainability – constitute a comprehensive roadmap for the future. She pointed out that her country has a similar vision, Austria 2040, which is almost in line with the Omani vision, particularly in the theme of environment.

As for bilateral relations, Minister Margarete affirmed that these relations are deep and long lasting. She pointed out that the relations are growing, particularly after the reopening of the Austrian Embassy in Muscat two years ago. “We are focusing now on setting up new projects in the economic areas that will contribute to augmenting the volume of trade exchange between Oman and Austria,” said the minister.

She explained that her visit to Oman aimed at promoting bilateral relations and cooperation towards wider horizons, noting that she discussed with the Omani side various topics of mutual interest, such as cooperation in renewable energy and green hydrogen technologies.

Minister Margarete said, “Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Oman and Austria are determined to promote their relations. There are many promising sectors in which we can cooperate. Austria needs green energy and it looks for new resources and partners. We have discussed with the Omani side the possibility of signing a memorandum of understanding in this field.”

As for the National Programme of Digital Economy, which was approved by the Council of Ministers last October, the minister said: “I am very pleased that the digital economy tops the priorities of the Omani government. This field is the key for a prosperous economic future and we look forward to cooperating with Oman in this area to adopt the best practices.”

She added that during her visit, she presented the Austrian experience in honing skills of students in school and then in university to prepare them for the labour market. Austria adopts a dual-learning system, the minister informed, pointing out that this system enables students to study a particular subject and at the same time work in a specialised company to sharpen their skills in that profession.

Her talks with Omani officials also touched on artificial intelligence. Minister Margarete said, “My country has devised a strategy in this field with the participation of many companies and institutions. This strategy is in the process of implementation and we are keen to present it for the Omani side so we can cooperate in this area.”

Minister Margarete pointed out that the two sides have agreed to devise a mechanism to boost bilateral relations. This mechanism will be through the formation of specialised working groups and intensifying joint visits and communication between officials of the two countries.