Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman hosted a symposium today entitled "The Right to Food" in observance of Arab Human Rights Day, celebrated annually on March 16.
Taking place at the Diplomatic Club, the symposium aimed to enhance public understanding of the significance of promoting human rights in line with both international and regional agreements. It also highlighted Oman’s initiatives to improve food security and relevant national policies.
The event was held under the patronage of Sheikh Khalifa Ali Al Harthy, Undersecretary of the Foreign Ministry for Political Affairs.
Organized by the Oman Human Rights Commission in collaboration with the Foreign Ministry, the symposium emphasized national and regional laws that safeguard the right to food security. It also showcased Oman’s commitment to humanitarian causes, particularly the rights of the Palestinian people.
During his address, Saleh Yahya Al Maskari, Head of the Global Affairs Department at the Foreign Ministry, stated that the right to food encompasses not just the availability of food, but also its diversity, affordability, and accessibility.
He further remarked, “The escalating food crisis in the Gaza Strip, exacerbated by Israel’s closure of crossings and the blockade preventing humanitarian aid from reaching over two million Palestinians, represents a blatant violation of international conventions and humanitarian law, which mandates the unobstructed provision of essential needs to civilians.”
Al Maskari emphasized that Oman places significant importance on ensuring food security and providing food for everyone. The nation is actively engaged in strengthening its food security framework.
In addition, Dr. Rashid Hamad Al Balushi, Chairman of the Oman Human Rights Commission, remarked that the celebration of this event highlights the dedication of Arab nations to uphold human rights in accordance with both regional and international agreements.
