BUSINESS REPORTER
MUSCAT, SEPT 17
The Omani delegation, led by Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, wrapped up a significant visit to the United States. The delegation engaged in key meetings with US officials and representatives from leading American industries, including manufacturing, energy, healthcare, information technology, tourism, and financial services. Key participants included Ambassador Ana Escrogima, US Ambassador to Oman; Ambassador Dr Mohammed bin Awadh al Hassan, Oman’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York; and Sabra bint Ahmed al Hooti, Deputy Head of the Omani Embassy in the US, along with officials from the Oman American Business Council and Oman’s Ministry of Commerce.
The visit aimed to bolster Oman’s commercial ties with the US by leveraging regional and international experiences to enhance trade, industry, and investment frameworks. It was part of ongoing efforts to expand investment and trade partnerships, aligning with Oman Vision 2040. The visit also underscored the importance of the Oman-US Free Trade Agreement, celebrating its 15th anniversary since its 2009 implementation.
Beginning in New York, Al Yousef and his delegation engaged with partners in financial services, investment, and key industries. They also connected with Omani students in New York and Massachusetts.
In Washington, D.C., the delegation met with officials from the State Department, the Office of the US Trade Representative, the Department of Commerce, and Congress members. Discussions centered on maximising the Free Trade Agreement’s benefits and enhancing various programmes. At the World Bank, they reviewed joint projects related to the Business Readiness Index. Oman will be evaluated under this index by 2025, with oversight from the National Competitiveness Office through the Nazdaher programme, focusing on private sector growth and foreign trade. Cooperation with the World Bank was discussed, particularly appointing experts to improve Oman’s business environment and boost exports.
The Omani Embassy hosted a reception at the Sultan Qaboos Cultural Centre, attended by US government representatives, investors, and Omani students. Dr Majid al Khalili, Director of the Center, delivered a welcoming speech, highlighting Oman’s commitment to strengthening international relations, including with the US.
The delegation also visited Arizona, meeting with the state’s trade authority to explore investment opportunities and promote bilateral trade. Field visits to companies revealed strong interest in investing in Oman’s energy, hydrogen, medical, and advanced industries, as well as IT sectors.
They also visited the University of Arizona, engaging with Omani students and learning about the university’s role in partnering with the government and private sector on economic development projects.
Concluding in California, the delegation reviewed the success of a prominent Omani IT company that has expanded across several US states. Discussions focused on leveraging the Free Trade Agreement to attract diverse investments into Oman.
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