Muscat – His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik chaired a meeting of the Council of Ministers at Al Barakah Palace on Monday and issued a series of directives focused on economic development, governance, employment, cybersecurity and public participation.

In a move aimed at enhancing economic coordination and private sector growth, His Majesty directed the establishment of the Economic Coordination Council to be chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs.

The council will work to align government policies with private sector needs, anticipate global economic developments, support the growth of key sectors, increase private sector contributions to the economy and promote a more diversified and balanced development model.

As part of efforts to strengthen the principle of shura and enhance the participation of women in public life, His Majesty directed the allocation of an additional seat for women in each governorate in Majlis A’Shura. The decision reserves 11 seats for women, in addition to the general seats open for election.

The council also reviewed the results of government institutions’ performance evaluations for 2025. The assessment showed continued improvement since establishment of the Government Institutions Performance Measurement Unit in 2022.

His Majesty commended the entities that achieved the highest performance levels and those that recorded the greatest improvements, stressing that such progress should translate into better services, higher levels of public satisfaction, an improved business environment and stronger progress towards Vision 2040 goals.

Addressing the growing influence of digital platforms on children, His Majesty directed the relevant authorities to study the issue, assess its implications and develop appropriate regulations and mechanisms to guide children’s use of social media and digital platforms by drawing on international best practices.

The council also emphasised the need for government entities to give greater priority to cybersecurity projects and address related challenges in coordination with specialised authorities amid rapid technological developments.

In a significant governance measure, the council approved the establishment of the Government Assets Authority, which will oversee the management and investment of the state’s fixed assets. The authority is expected to enhance governance, improve asset utilisation and generate sustainable returns to support the national economy and state budget.

The council reviewed national employment efforts and commended initiatives undertaken by government and private sector institutions to create jobs for Omani citizens. It called for higher employment targets and intensified efforts to expand opportunities for jobseekers.

On foreign policy, the Council of Ministers praised the launch of the Muscat Plan of Action in cooperation with the United Nations, reaffirming Oman’s longstanding commitment to dialogue, diplomacy, respect for state sovereignty and non-interference in the affairs of other countries.

The council welcomed the understanding reached between the United States and Iran for a peace deal and expressed appreciation for regional and international efforts aimed at preserving security and stability, particularly the role played by GCC member states and Pakistan.

His Majesty also praised the swift response of Oman’s military and security institutions in safeguarding the country, stressing the importance of continued vigilance and the sultanate’s commitment to maritime security and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law.

Acknowledging the economic impact of recent regional developments, His Majesty directed the provision of support measures for national economic sectors, particularly small and medium enterprises affected by the situation, while calling for continued efforts to secure supply chains, facilitate transport and strengthen regional coordination.

The meeting concluded with His Majesty commending the constructive proposals put forward by citizens and praising the role of Omani media in presenting the sultanate’s position with balance, responsibility and a focus on the national interest.

Key announcements

Economic Coordination Council established to strengthen public-private sector cooperation and support economic diversification

Women’s representation in Majlis A’Shura expanded with an additional seat allocated in each governorate

Government Assets Authority approved to oversee and invest state-owned fixed assets

Review ordered on children’s use of digital platforms to develop appropriate regulatory measures

Support package announced for affected economic sectors to mitigate the impact of recent regional developments

US-Iran understanding welcomed, with appreciation for the efforts of GCC states and Pakistan