Islamabad, Pakistan – Oman and Pakistan have called for intensified diplomatic efforts to ease regional tensions, resolve disputes peacefully and prevent further escalation, reaffirming their shared commitment to dialogue and regional stability.

The call came as H E Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidy, Foreign Minister, and Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan, held talks in Islamabad on Wednesday, covering regional developments and ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

Speaking at a joint press conference following the eighth session of the Oman-Pakistan Joint Ministerial Committee, H E Sayyid Badr underscored the importance of dialogue, diplomacy and constructive engagement in addressing regional challenges and resolving differences.

He commended Pakistan’s constructive role in supporting diplomatic efforts in the region, highlighting the importance of confidence-building and advancing peaceful solutions to regional challenges.

Dar said the two sides exchanged views on the war involving the United States and Iran, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, developments in the Bab Al Mandab Strait and the situation in Gaza.

He noted the convergence of views between the two countries and stressed the need to intensify efforts to address these challenges and restore peace and stability to the region.

Both ministers reaffirmed the importance of sustaining diplomatic engagement and prioritising dialogue to resolve disputes, reduce tensions and strengthen regional security.

Bilateral cooperation

In a separate bilateral meeting, H E Sayyid Badr and Dar reviewed the longstanding relations between Oman and Pakistan and explored opportunities to expand cooperation across a range of economic and development sectors.

Their discussions covered trade, investment, industry, agriculture, energy, transport, labour, consular affairs and education.

The ministers also examined ways to strengthen partnerships between private-sector institutions and capitalise on investment opportunities through joint projects that serve the mutual interests of both countries.

On regional affairs, H E Sayyid Badr commended Pakistan’s efforts to promote dialogue and contain crises, while Dar expressed appreciation for Oman’s role in facilitating communication and bringing parties closer together on regional issues.

The two sides stressed the importance of continued coordination and adherence to international law, underlining the role of diplomacy and constructive engagement in reducing tensions and promoting security and stability both regionally and internationally.

Agreements to strengthen bilateral cooperation

Oman and Pakistan signed an agreement and four memoranda of understanding (MoUs) on Wednesday to strengthen cooperation in several fields, including information technology, media and exchange of news.

The agreements and MoUs were signed in the presence of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

The agreements included visa exemptions for holders of official, diplomatic, special and service passports, as well as cooperation in communications and information technology, radio and television, news and information exchange, and collaboration between relevant authorities.

The two sides reaffirmed the historical ties between the two countries and discussed promising economic and investment opportunities. They also exchanged views on regional developments and ongoing efforts for de-escalation.