Muscat – The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT) inked a framework agreement with Quartet Solutions (QS) Maritime on Wednesday, aimed at developing, managing and operating Shinas Port.

The signatories were H E Eng Said bin Hamood al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, and Abdul Baqi bin Ahmed al Kindi, CEO of QS Maritime, a consortium of local and international firms specialising in port management and operations.

This agreement stems from MTCIT’s drive to attract more foreign investments and foster both international and local partnerships in port and harbour management and operations.

Development of the port is slated to proceed in three phases. The first involves forming a committee to oversee the port’s handover. Starting November 1, the Stage 2 will commence with the development, management and operations of the port, alongside crafting a commercial and marketing plan, as well as a new general layout for the port. This phase will last for eight months.

In the third stage, final negotiations will be conducted over a 12-month period in preparation of signing a long-term agreement, aimed at developing, managing and operating the port for an extended 30-year term.

Elaborating on the benefits of the agreement, Muhanna bin Moosa Baqer, Director General of Ports at MTCIT, said it will enhance expertise of Omani companies and professionals in port management and operations and also boost imports and exports of commodities like vegetables, fruits and other foodstuffs, while stimulating ship movement.