A historic visit that strengthens the bonds of history
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Sunday’s visit to the Kingdom by Sultan Haitham of Oman comes within the framework of strengthening the historical relations between the leaderships of the two countries, and expanding the horizons of cooperation and ways to develop it.
Relations between Riyadh and Muscat, which are more than half a century old, are characterized by cooperation and mutual respect and understanding on various regional and international issues. The two peoples are also united by bonds of brotherhood, framed by a common history.
Regionally, the efforts of Saudi Arabia and Oman are joined by their brothers under the umbrella of the Gulf Cooperation Council, in accordance with common visions and strategic goals in order to achieve coordination and integration between member states; and their roles expand within the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and with the international community at the United Nations.
The summit in Neom between King Salman and Sultan Haitham will witness the launch of a coordination council between the two countries, which will be a framework for the many agreements they intend to sign. The council will contribute to a common vision for deepening and sustaining integration in the political, security, military, economic, developmental and human fields.
The coming days will witness a new phase in the economic, trade and investment partnership between Saudi Arabia and Oman, which enjoys the support of the two leaderships. This partnership stems from the ambitions of Oman Vision 2040 and Saudi Vision 2030, and the tremendous investment opportunities they create. They are based on the principle of diversification in the economy, creating conditions for the private sector and investors to have a greater role in creating job opportunities for the national workforce and developing the economy.
Relations between Riyadh and Muscat, which are more than half a century old, are characterized by cooperation and mutual respect and understanding on various regional and international issues.
Dr. Hamdan Al-Shehri
Government officials and the private sector in both countries have been developing a vision to identify areas of joint economic and investment cooperation, and put forward proposals to activate trade relations between the two parties, increase investment opportunities, and focus on non-oil, logistical and tourism activities.
The opening of the first direct land border crossing between the two countries will reduce the transport cost of imports and exports, facilitate communication between individuals, traders and investors, strengthen the logistics and tourism sectors, and greatly support the growth of investment and trade exchange. The Sohar and Duqm ports are close to the new border crossing, enabling joint investment projects in the Sohar Industrial Area and in the Duqm Free Economic Zone, which is one of the most important investment centers for the sultanate.
Saudi Arabia is also a strategic partner in a number of economic projects in Oman, including the development of Khazaen Economic City, and in the energy sector through the Salalah 2 power station.
Changes in the region are pushing the leaderships of the two countries toward more cooperation at the bilateral, Gulf and regional levels. The meeting of the Saudi and Omani leaderships for consultation and coordination reflects their wisdom and farsightedness in dealing with the latest developments.
Saudi Arabia and Oman are coordinating intensively on many regional issues, foremost of which is the Yemeni issue, with Oman’s support for the Saudi initiative to reach a political solution and end the Houthi coup in Yemen, in addition to the Riyadh Agreement.
- Dr. Hamdan Al-Shehri is a political analyst and international relations scholar. Twitter: @DrHamsheri
