Tehran, Iran – His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and President Dr Ebrahim Raisi of the Islamic Republic of Iran directed their governments to draft a strategic cooperation charter to maximise benefits and consolidate ties between the two countries in a sustainable manner. The two leaders also expressed their keenness to work for regional peace and stability.

This was stated in a joint communiqué issued by Oman and Iran on the occasion of the official visit of His Majesty the Sultan to Iran. The communiqué reads as follows:

‘Based on the long-standing relations between Oman and Iran and, in affirmation of mutual respect between the leaders of the two countries and, on the foundations of good neighbourliness, fraternity, religious and cultural ties, His Majesty the Sultan, made an official visit to Iran in response to an invitation by President Raisi.

‘During the visit, the two leaders discussed bilateral relations and ways of enhancing these, notably in the areas of trade, energy, investment and culture with the primary aim of achieving mutual benefits and cementing bonds between the two friendly peoples.

‘The two sides expressed their satisfaction with the lofty status of bilateral relations, noting that these relations experienced greater growth, especially after the Iranian President’s visit to Oman last year upon the invitation of His Majesty the Sultan of Oman.

‘The two sides expressed their keenness to expand relations in the future. They pledged their support for the joint committees and work teams. They also welcomed the exchange of visits aimed at following up the development of relations.

‘The two sides underscored the significant role of the private sector in the two countries in expanding economic cooperation. They expressed satisfaction with the continuous pace of trade exchange and the growth of joint investments. In this context, they welcomed the signing of agreements and memoranda of understanding in economic, commercial, transport, investment, energy and cultural fields. They gave directives to activate existing agreements and take steps to enter new ones that meet their common approaches and serve their interests.

‘Also, within the context of establishing solid grounds for bilateral relations and securing their sustainability, the leaders directed their governments to work towards devising and signing a strategic cooperation charter between the two countries that covers various spheres, enhancing joint cooperation and exchanging mutual benefits.’

The joint communiqué added, ‘His Majesty the Sultan and the Iranian President exchanged views on a number of regional and international issues of common concern. They stressed the significance of maintaining efforts and benign endeavours in security, political, economic and cultural fields, with a view to consolidating the foundations of peace and stability in the region. They encouraged the pursuance of talks and political consultations between the two countries.

‘The two sides laid emphasis on a culture of dialogue emerging in the region as a measure to settle outstanding issues, consolidate relations between neighbouring countries and accomplish peace and prosperity for all peoples.

‘President Raisi voiced his great admiration for the efforts of His Majesty the Sultan. He commended His Majesty’s wise approach and constructive policies in regional and international arenas, noting that such a stance is capable of promoting positive bilateral relations, peace and stability in the region.

‘His Majesty expressed his great appreciation for the policy of good neighbourliness espoused by the Iranian government.

‘At the conclusion of the visit, President Raisi reiterated his pride over this historic visit made to Iran by his brother His Majesty the Sultan.’