Opinion

Achieving the goals of development

The meetings His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik had with shaikhs and other officials from the North Al Bathinah, Al Dhahirah and Al Buraimi governorates is considered highly important. This is being seen as reaffirmation of the commitments of the blessed Renaissance particularly when the Sultanate of Oman has entered a new phase of its history.

At this moment, His Majesty the Sultan has made everything clear about the future course for the country. By this move, he has given clear indications that he would be directly in touch with all. Businessmen and other segments of the society would come under the umbrella of his support. He has also made it clear that the five-year plan which is formulated in consultations with all is successful and achieving its objectives. He pointed out that all development goals must be achieved.

His Majesty appreciated the economic potential of the North Al Bathinah Governorate and he particularly mentioned the contributions made by Sohar Port in pushing the wheel of the economic development of the country. He also made a mention of Al Buraimi’s contribution to the country. He said that the Al Dhahirah Governorate will enjoy the economic and strategic opportunities which will be realised with the opening of a road between the Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is now for the private sector to show how it avails of such opportunities in the interests of the two neighbouring countries.

His Majesty was of the firm view that the government organisations, municipal councils and members of the Majlis Ash'shura will coordinate with each other to address the requirements of the governorates and wilayats. This shows that there will be no centralisation of power.

His Majesty also expressed satisfaction that the oil prices are improving and directed that more government spending should be made which will ultimately speed up the economic development in the country. He made all these comments and remarks during his meetings and consultations with important personalities from the governorates.

This is a clear indication that now there is no gap between the leader and his people. This is the principle introduced by late Sultan Qaboos since the beginning of the blessed Renaissance 50 years ago. He always promoted the spirit of direct consultations and the shura system to listen to the views of the citizens of the country, particularly about developmental projects. His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik is further strengthening the idea particularly when the country is ushering in a new phase of progress.

These meetings which His Majesty had gave an impetus to all national initiatives. These meetings have generated optimism and confidence that the leader is concerned about them and is watching things minutely. The leader of the country always keeps a keen eye on the details of the efforts being made for development.

The direct meetings which His Majesty had with is an indication that he would never allow anything to go missing from his direct attention, particularly when it is concerned about the interests of the people.