New York– Oman has reaffirmed the importance of dialogue and preventive diplomacy in addressing conflicts and advancing peace, as Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi held talks with senior international officials on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Sayyid Badr met Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, where they reviewed ways to advance understandings reached during recent joint consultations and communications.

The two sides discussed using the Memorandum of Understanding on political consultations to establish regular dialogue, as well as opportunities for cooperation in energy, critical minerals and higher education. They also explored ways to strengthen trade and investment ties between Oman and Canada.

Regional developments and ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions and overcome obstacles to political solutions were also discussed. The meeting stressed the importance of protecting civilians and ensuring the unhindered flow of international navigation and trade, in support of regional and international security and stability.

Sayyid Badr also met Dr Khalilur Rahman, President of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, at the UN headquarters in New York.

The meeting focused on the priorities of the current General Assembly session and ways to build broader consensus among member states to strengthen the UN’s ability to address interconnected crises and promote peaceful solutions to international issues.

Sayyid Badr affirmed Oman’s support for the General Assembly Presidency’s efforts to restore confidence in international cooperation and improve the performance of the UN system in line with the principles of the UN Charter and the needs of nations and aspirations of their peoples.

The talks also highlighted the role of dialogue and preventive diplomacy in mitigating conflicts, along with the importance of linking peace-building efforts with sustainable development to support broader and more lasting stability.