Muscat: The fifth annual assembly was convened by the Foreign Ministry today, hosted at the Diplomatic Club, in the presence of ambassadors, heads of Diplomatic Missions, and International Organizations accredited to the Sultanate of Oman.
The assembly's primary objective was to facilitate the exchange of perspectives on contemporary regional issues, with discussions focusing on the development process and Oman Vision 2040, in addition to the country's foreign policy.
During the assembly, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, extended his appreciation for the commendable efforts demonstrated by the heads of missions in sustaining and enhancing bilateral relations with Oman.
On the political front, the Minister emphasized the necessity of pursuing a vision of a two-state solution as the sole means to achieve peace, asserting that the Palestinian populace holds the ultimate authority in determining the sovereignty structure of the Palestinian state they aspire to.
He also conveyed the Sultanate of Oman's gratitude towards nations that have taken steps towards formal recognition of the State of Palestine, acknowledging the significant contribution these actions have made to the prevailing global consensus on this matter.
The assembly addressed the dire situation in the Gaza Strip and the profound suffering experienced by the Palestinian populace as a consequence of military operations conducted by the Israeli occupation forces, which have exceeded the bounds of international law and humanitarian law. The situation in Lebanon was also deliberated upon.
Furthermore, the Minister reviewed a series of proposals aimed at addressing current challenges and fostering global justice and peace. These included the necessity to modernize and revitalize the United Nations Security Council, particularly concerning the veto powers vested in permanent member states, which he argued are outdated and obstructive to the pursuit of international justice, while also serving the interests of a state that persistently violates international law.
In relation to the objectives of Oman Vision 2040, the Minister highlighted the adaptability of the Omani economy within the context of its diversification strategy, investment appeal, and the opportunities it presents for supporting research and innovation, as well as the development of human skills and capabilities. He also mentioned the Social Protection Law, which plays a crucial role in providing a safety net for various societal segments, and the Research and Innovation Law, which establishes a national framework to encourage research and innovation.
The Minister underscored the commitment of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik's government to creating the most favorable conditions for investors and entrepreneurs, while ensuring the protection of the welfare of those unable to seize these opportunities.
Towards the conclusion of the assembly, Sayyid Badr extended his gratitude and acknowledgment to the ambassadors and members of the diplomatic corps accredited to the Sultanate of Oman, as well as to the organizations for their diligent efforts in fostering relations and cooperation.
The representatives of the missions reciprocated this sentiment, expressing their heartfelt gratitude towards the Foreign Minister for his initiative in organizing this productive annual gathering. They reaffirmed their commitment to the existing partnership with the Sultanate of Oman.
The assembly was graced by the presence of Khalid bin Hashel Al Musalhi, Undersecretary of the Foreign Ministry for Administrative and Financial Affairs, and Najib bin Yahya Al Balushi, Head of the Protocols Department at the Foreign Ministry.
