Manila, Philippines – Oman and the Philippines have signed an agreement on mutual visa exemption for holders of diplomatic, special and service passports, in a move that reflects growing bilateral relations and commitment to enhancing cooperation in key sectors.

The agreement was signed on Monday during a meeting in Manila between Sayyid Badr bin Hamad al Busaidi, Foreign Minister of Oman, and Maria Theresa Lazaro, Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines.

The two ministers reviewed ways to further develop cooperation, particularly in economic and scientific fields. They agreed to continue efforts to finalise several bilateral memoranda of understanding, including an agreement to avoid double taxation and another to encourage and protect mutual investments.

The ministers also agreed to convene the second Oman-Philippines Investment Forum in Muscat next year, aimed at strengthening sustainable economic ties between the two countries.

On political matters, the discussions included regional developments and mechanisms to enhance cooperation between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), particularly in knowledge exchange, capacity building and strategic partnerships.

The Philippine foreign minister expressed appreciation for Oman’s recent humanitarian efforts, including its role in securing the release of sailors from the Galaxy Leader ship detained in Yemen. She also lauded the sultanate’s peace diplomacy, led by His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, and the positive treatment of Filipino workers in Oman.

Maria welcomed the outcomes of the recent Oman-Cebu Investment Forum and expressed her country’s interest in expanding such initiatives, encouraging private sector engagement and investment.

Sayyid Badr, in turn, commended the Philippines’ support and affirmed the strong ties between the two nations. He noted the shared human values and friendship that continue to guide cooperation for mutual benefit.

The meeting was attended by Nasser bin Saeed al Manouri, Ambassador of Oman to the Philippines, Raul Hernandez, Ambassador of the Philippines to Oman, and other officials from both sides.