The National Day and Armed Forces Day reception, hosted by the Korean Embassy in Muscat on December 4, 2023, brought together members of the Korean community, Omani participants including H.E. Dr. Ali Bin Amer Al Shidhani, Under Secretary for Communications and IT at the Ministry of Transport, Communications and IT, and members of the diplomatic corps. This event served as a celebration of the strong and enduring partnership between Korea and Oman, which has flourished since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1974.
During the reception, H.E. KIM Kiejoo, Ambassador of Korea to the Sultanate of Oman, emphasized the three pillars that have formed the foundation of this partnership: political, economic, and cultural cooperation. He highlighted the shared commitment to peace and prosperity that has been a constant throughout the 49 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The economic ties between Korea and Oman have been mutually beneficial, with bilateral trade reaching USD 5.6 billion last year. Ambassador KIM reaffirmed the commitment to aligning the partnership with Oman Vision 2040 and contributing to its realization. He also expressed the intention to enhance collaboration in the development of the green hydrogen industry and the achievement of zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Cultural affinity between the Korean and Omani people has been growing, and Ambassador KIM expressed his eagerness to further promote cultural exchanges in anticipation of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2024. Educational exchanges, facilitated by the Korean Scholarship Program (KSP), are expected to play a significant role in deepening these cultural ties.