Muscat: The Council of Oman, operating within its active bicameral framework, plays a pivotal role in the nation's domestic development process. Its authority is derived from the Basic Law of the State and the Council of Oman's Law.
During its inaugural annual gathering in the 8th Term, the State Council convened five sessions. These sessions were dedicated to the discussion of the draft version of the State Budget for 2024 and the review of several draft legislations submitted by the government.
The annual assembly also facilitated discussions on the responses provided by the Council of Ministers to the studies and proposals submitted to the Cabinet by the State Council.
Among the most significant legislative matters reviewed during the annual assembly were the "draft law on the protection of bank deposits," the "draft law on regulating trade in wildlife," and the "draft media law."
Furthermore, the State Council engaged in a joint session with the Shura Council, during which the two bodies deliberated on articles of dispute presented in draft laws submitted by the government.
Throughout its proceedings, the State Council's Office established three specialized committees: (1) A committee tasked with the study of "The Contents of the Royal Speech at the Opening of the First Session of the 8th Term of the Council of Oman," (2) a committee focused on "A Mechanism for Diversifying Sources of Income in the Sultanate of Oman," and (3) a committee dedicated to "The Role of Plant Breeds in Strengthening the Local Economy."
Additionally, the State Council welcomed government officials and specialists who presented their contributions to the development of the institutions under their supervision. This included presentations, plans, and programs from various units such as the Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Unit, the Ministry of Finance, and the Oman Investment Authority (OIA).
Concurrently, the Shura Council initiated its first annual gathering of the 10th Term, which featured twelve regular sessions, with four sessions allocated for ministerial statements.
The Shura Council collaborates closely with the State Council through joint committees, which organize special sessions for the debate of articles of dispute concerning draft laws.
