The Electronic Transactions Law and the Organ and Tissue Transplantation Law were both approved by the Shura Council in Muscat on Sunday. These laws were referred to the council for study as per Article 49 of the Council of Oman Law.
Each permanent committee of the Shura Council diligently reviewed the proposed laws within their respective areas of expertise. Mansoor bin Zahir Al-Hajri, Chairman and Rapporteur of the Health and Social Committee, presented the committee's findings on the Organ and Tissue Transplantation Law. This law aims to regulate organ and tissue transplantation, prevent trafficking, and protect the rights of donors and recipients.
The committee collaborated with relevant governmental and non-governmental bodies to gather comprehensive perspectives, resulting in several proposed amendments and additions to the 36-article law. The Shura Council thoroughly debated these recommendations to refine the legislation.
The sitting began with a speech by the Chairman of the Shura Council, who extended heartfelt congratulations to His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik on the occasion of Eid al-Adha. He emphasized the importance of discussing and approving the Electronic Transactions Law and the Organ and Tissue Transplantation Law, urging Shura members to contribute their insights and proposals in line with national objectives.
Electronic Transactions Law
Dr. Talal bin Said Al-Ma'amari, deputy Chairman of the Legislative and Legal Committee, emphasized the importance of reviewing the Electronic Transactions Law due to rapid technological advancements.
The committee's report highlighted the need to update the law from 2008 to address new technological developments and aspects not previously covered. The new law, consisting of 38 articles spread across seven chapters, aims to improve trust in electronic transactions and services, while safeguarding the rights of all parties involved.
Detailed discussions were held during the meeting to consider the committee's proposed amendments for enhancing the law's effectiveness and applicability.
Agreements
The meeting also discussed the Economic and Financial Committee's perspectives on two proposed agreements: one with the Republic of Cyprus to prevent double taxation and combat tax evasion, and another with the Islamic Republic of Iran regarding mutual administrative assistance in customs affairs.
Moreover, the Shura Assembly endorsed various committee reports on expressed wishes, which included the Health and Social Committee's assessment of services for children in social welfare institutions, the Economic and Financial Committee's examination of the Omani Export Credit Guarantee Agency, and the Food and Water Security Committee's evaluation of government entities in the fisheries industry.
The ninth ordinary session of the inaugural annual term (2023-2024) of the tenth legislative period (2023-2027) was overseen by Sheikh Khalid bin Hilal Al-Maawali and attended by the Majlis members and the Secretary General, Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Nadabi.
The Shura is set to welcome Dr. Rahma bint Ibrahim Al-Mahrouqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation, for a public session on Monday. She will present her ministry's statement, focusing on key areas such as higher education policies, research, innovation, and relevant legislation in line with Oman Vision 2040.
