Muscat – His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik’s state visits to the UAE, Egypt, Iran, Singapore and India symbolise Oman’s commitment to fostering strategic partnerships globally. Experts view these visits as crucial steps towards enhancing economic, commercial and scientific cooperation.

Dr Ahmed Said al Jahwari, a legal consultant, emphasised the significance of these visits in establishing international cooperation, deeply rooted and evolving over centuries. These diplomatic engagements are strategically aligned to bolster economic ties, with a focus on the energy, trade and investment sectors. Such efforts are seen as congruent with the economic interests and visions of these nations.

“These countries’ policies have played a pivotal role in diversifying cooperation areas and exploring new opportunities, aligning with the economic interests and visions of their leaders,” Jahwari stated. He highlighted the role of communities from these countries in Oman, serving as cultural and commercial bridges, and reinforcing the harmonious coexistence and mutual respect that define Oman’s relations with these nations.

Khamis al Abri, legal advisor and political analyst, described His Majesty the Sultan’s visits as turning points in Oman’s relations with these countries marked by the signing of numerous agreements in sectors such as maritime, navigation, investment, trade, industry, clean energy and defence.

“Oman’s stability, positive investment climate and progressive credit rating make it an attractive destination for foreign investors, including those visited by H M the Sultan. These visits are not only about strengthening ties but also about joint goals of sustainable economic development,” Abri explained.

He also stressed the importance of these visits in building upon historical relations and ushering in a new era of positive development in bilateral ties. The visits symbolise milestones in Oman’s diplomatic journey, reinforcing its role as a stable oasis and a hub for cultural and knowledge exchange in the region.

India visit – December 15, 2023 – In a landmark visit, the first in over 25 years for the Sultan of Oman, His Majesty Sultan Haitham travelled to India on the invitation of President Droupadi Murmu. The visit, marked by a ceremonial welcome in New Delhi, emphasised the enduring partnership between Oman and India, rooted in historical ties and mutual trust.

Egypt visit – May 21, 2023 – His Majesty Sultan Haitham’s visit to Egypt, spanning two days, symbolised a commitment to deepening the historical ties between Oman and Egypt. The visit marked a new chapter in bilateral relations, focused on enhancing cooperation and mutual prosperity.

Iran visit – May 28, 2023 – Accepting an invitation from President Dr Ebrahim Raisi, His Majesty Sultan Haitham visited Iran, reinforcing the longstanding friendly relations. The visit included drafting a strategic cooperation charter to enhance bilateral ties and discussions on trade, energy, investment and culture. The leaders also committed to regional peace and stability.

UAE visit – January 18, 2023 – Participating in a significant meeting in Abu Dhabi, His Majesty Sultan Haitham joined leaders from the GCC states, Jordan and Egypt. Themed ‘Prosperity and Stability in the Region,’ the meeting emphasised collaborative efforts towards shared aspirations.

Singapore visit – December 13, 2023 – Responding to President Tharman Shanmugaratnam’s invitation, His Majesty Sultan Haitham visited Singapore, reinforcing the longstanding friendship and mutual cooperation between the two countries. Discussions with President Tharman and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong focused on enhancing trade and economic collaboration in sectors like aquaculture, food security and transport logistics, while fostering connectivity between startups and SMEs.