Muscat – His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik concluded his state visit to the Republic of Turkiye on Friday. A joint communique issued on His Majesty the Sultan’s state visit underlined the deep-rooted ties between the two countries and their keenness to support cooperation in various fields of common interest, as well as boosting economic relations by augmenting the volume of trade exchange and encouraging joint investments.

The communique reads as follows: ‘In response to an invitation by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of the Republic of Turkiye, His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik made a state visit to the Turkiye on November 28-29.

‘This is the first visit of its kind at the leadership level, reflecting the importance of the historical relations and close ties between the two countries.

‘The meetings held between the two leaders underlined the deep-rooted ties between the two countries and their keenness to support cooperation in various fields of common interest.

‘The two sides discussed prospects for developing bilateral relations, especially in the political, economic, military and defence fields, in addition to science and technology, education, culture, energy and tourism.

‘The two leaders stressed the importance of boosting the economic relations between the two countries by augmenting the volume of trade exchange and encouraging joint investments. They also expressed their aspiration for the success of the 12th session of the Joint Economic Committee, scheduled to be held in Muscat in December 2024.

‘During the visit, a number of agreements and memoranda of understanding were signed to consolidate the legal basis for bilateral relations and enhance cooperation in various fields.

‘The two leaders also exchanged views on the regional and international developments. They also stressed the importance of coordinating stances to back regional security and stability.

‘They also stressed their commitment to working together to back peacemaking efforts and address regional and international challenges.

‘His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik extended an invitation to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to visit the Sultanate of Oman. President Erdogan welcomed and accepted the invitation, looking forward to continuing the dialogue and boosting cooperation between the two countries.

‘At the end of the visit, His Majesty the Sultan expressed his sincere appreciation to the Turkish President and people for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to him and his accompanying delegation.’

His Majesty, President Erdogan highlight shared vision

In a ceremonial event marking the signing of ten agreements between Oman and Turkiye, His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan emphasised their shared vision for strengthening Oman-Turkiye relations.

His Majesty the Sultan expressed his satisfaction with the “constructive dialogue” during the visit, noting the historical ties between the two nations. “Our relations are a vital model of fruitful cooperation,” he said, highlighting Turkish companies’ contributions to Oman’s infrastructure and Omani investments in Turkiye.

He added, “We hope to expand commercial exchange and encourage joint economic projects through the newly launched joint investment fund.”

His Majesty underlined the importance of cultural cooperation, stating it would enrich knowledge and strengthen interactions between peoples. He also reaffirmed Oman’s commitment to peace and stability in the region, with particular support for a just solution to the Palestinian issue. “We are confident in Turkiye’s strong backing for this legitimate cause and the country’s endeavours to help achieve justice and peace for all.”

President Erdogan welcomed His Majesty the Sultan, describing the visit as a milestone in diplomatic relations. He thanked Oman for its solidarity following the earthquake in Turkiye last year and commended Oman’s efforts in regional peace initiatives, particularly in Yemen.

Erdogan noted that the agreements signed during the visit would boost trade and cooperation in sectors like energy and defence. He revealed that Turkiye would begin importing liquefied natural gas from Oman in 2025, marking a significant step in energy collaboration.

Both leaders reiterated their commitment to addressing regional challenges through dialogue and cooperation. His Majesty extended an invitation for Erdogan to visit Oman. “Your visit to Oman would enhance our fraternal relations towards further progress and constructive cooperation benefiting the two friendly peoples,” said His Majesty.