The Sultanate of Oman steadfastly upholds the belief that international relations should be built on the bedrock of mutual respect and shared interests. This principle serves as the cornerstone for Oman's foreign policy, which actively seeks to foster multi-party cooperation and dialogue with nations across the globe. Positioned as a communication bridge, Oman endeavours to illuminate the path of collaboration and understanding, especially in the face of the complex challenges confronting the global community today.
Adapting to the ever-evolving dynamics of regional and international arenas, Oman remains committed to adopting balanced attitudes towards pressing issues. Leveraging its extensive diplomatic experience, Oman actively pursues mediation and dialogue to contribute to global peace efforts and reduce tensions. The Sultanate emphasises peaceful solutions as essential tools for conflict resolution, aiming to contribute to the broader international community's efforts to create a safer world for all.
Oman's foreign policy has been pivotal in addressing various regional issues, with notable contributions to peace talks in Yemen and the Iranian nuclear file. Internationally recognised for its diplomatic efforts, Oman consistently upholds the principle of dialogue for conflict resolution, earning the confidence of conflicting parties as a neutral mediator.
Under the sagacious leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, Oman reaffirms its unwavering solidarity with the Palestinian people. His Majesty advocates for an end to escalations and attacks, emphasising the critical role of the international community in protecting civilians. The Sultanate calls for the removal of the illegal siege on Gaza and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, showcasing Oman's commitment to the principles of international humanitarian law, the two-state solution, the Arab Peace Initiative, and United Nations resolutions.
In addressing the protracted Syrian crisis, Oman actively provides humanitarian aid. It encourages dialogue among the involved parties to reach a peaceful resolution. At the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Oman reiterated its commitment to the principles of justice and respect for the United Nations Charter, international law, and the sovereignty of states. Oman calls on the international community to adopt dialogue to achieve peaceful solutions and negotiations, ultimately leading to a world characterised by prosperity, stability, security, and peace.
Maintaining its position as a neutral mediator, Oman, during the 32nd Arab Summit, underscores the importance of neutrality and non-interference in internal affairs. The Sultanate of Oman's political approach, characterised by a commitment to dialogue, non-interference, and respect for national sovereignty, has fostered trust internationally, further solidifying its role in bridging viewpoints and contributing to conflict resolution.
The Omani diplomacy, as articulated by Sayyid Badr bin Hamad al Busaidy, the Foreign Minister, emphasises the power of dialogue as a successful means to achieve social harmony and understanding among nations and peoples. In an exclusive statement to Oman News Agency (ONA), the Foreign Minister highlighted that the Sultanate maintains strong relations with all Arab, regional, and international countries. He articulates the ministry's hope for constructive engagement, aiming to maximise mutual benefits, be they economic, commercial, or tourism.
The Foreign Ministry's commitment to preserving and fostering international relations is evident through its embassies abroad, which actively work to strengthen these relationships. The minister acknowledges the inevitability of differences and challenges but urges a focus on commonalities over divisions, not only within the Arab region but globally. Recognising everyday challenges, the minister advocates for addressing them based on the principle of 'not harm'. Dialogue, he asserts, is a powerful tool capable of finding solutions to complex issues, building trust between parties, and avoiding conflicts and losses.
Oman's foreign policy achievements extend beyond its immediate region, playing a key role in significant diplomatic milestones. The Sultanate, alongside the other parties, played a crucial role in the negotiations leading to the signing of the Iranian nuclear agreement with the P5+1. Despite subsequent withdrawal by Western countries, Oman, committed to dialogue, actively seeks a return to negotiations.
Furthermore, Oman played a prominent and influential role in restoring Iranian-Saudi relations. Acting as a facilitator, Oman hosted initial meetings between the two sides in Muscat, culminating in signing a joint statement in Beijing to resume diplomatic relations and reopen embassies. This diplomatic success underscores Oman's commitment to fostering regional stability and peace through dialogue.
The Islamic Republic of Iran Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman, Ali Najafi, acknowledges Oman's balanced global policy. He points to Oman's significant role in the negotiations leading to the Iranian nuclear agreement and its instrumental role in restoring Iranian-Saudi relations. The ambassador notes Oman's ongoing efforts, alongside the other party, to return to negotiations despite challenges.
In addition to its regional endeavours, Oman maintains a global perspective in its foreign policy approach. This is evident in its participation in the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly, where it reaffirms the centrality of dialogue in its foreign policy. Oman emphasises the importance of positive interaction with the global community, advocating for mutual respect for cultures and their diversity. The Sultanate actively combats intrusive and destructive trends and thoughts through national and collective plans aimed at fortifying societies, contributing to the enrichment of human civilisations, and advancing moral ideals.
The 43rd extraordinary session of the GCC Ministerial Council on October 17 saw Oman reiterating its commitment to supporting peace, security, and stability in the region and the world. The meeting convened to discuss developments in the occupied Palestinian territories and the Israeli escalation in the Gaza Strip emphasised the GCC's determination to initiate an urgent humanitarian relief operation for the Palestinian people. Oman pledged $1 million worth of urgent relief materials. It underscored the necessity of ensuring the prompt delivery of aid to Gaza.
Amid the increasing challenges and rapid changes in the Middle East, Oman's diplomacy represents a unique model for maintaining regional stability and security. The Sultanate of Oman's stable and balanced attitudes have positioned it as a central player in numerous regional and international issues. Sayyid Badr bin Hamad al Busaidy, the Foreign Minister, affirms that Oman's approach is based on dialogue as a successful means of achieving social harmony and understanding among countries and peoples.
Syrian Ambassador Dr Idris Maya, underscores Oman's deep awareness of the challenges facing the Arab nation. Oman's declared stance on the Syrian issue reflects its respect for Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity, rejecting foreign interference in its internal affairs. This principled stance aligns with Oman's commitment to dialogue as the preferred method for global conflict resolution.
Dr. Khaled Saleh Shoteif, the Ambassador of the Republic of Yemen to the Sultanate of Oman, applauds Oman's role as a peace-loving nation and a proponent of dialogue. Since the onset of Oman's renaissance, the Sultanate has distanced itself from joining axes and engaging in conflicts. Oman's positive and pioneering role in reducing tensions has transformed it into a success story and a beacon for peace in the region, earning the international community's trust.
Oman's foreign policy remains a unique model, characterised by stability, balance, and a commitment to dialogue as the primary tool for conflict resolution. As the Sultanate navigates the challenges of the ever-changing Middle East, it continues to serve as a beacon of peace, fostering cooperation and understanding on the global stage. ONA
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
