Latest news with #UK-Oman
Muscat Daily
05-07-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
British Omani Society hosts high-level talks on trade cooperation
London, UK – The British Omani Society (BOS), in collaboration with the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman in London, hosted a high-level panel discussion and networking reception on Thursday to explore strategic business opportunities between the United Kingdom and Oman. Held at BOS headquarters in Mayfair, the event brought together senior officials and private sector leaders from both countries. It came at a pivotal moment in the ongoing UK-GCC Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, offering a platform to reaffirm Oman's position as a stable and growing destination for trade and investment. Richard Stanford, Chair of BOS, opened the evening with a welcome address outlining the society's role in fostering bilateral engagement. The panel discussion was led by Pankaj Khimji, Adviser for Foreign Trade and International Cooperation at Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, who provided an overview of Oman's foreign trade priorities. Other panellists included Sir Philip Barton, former Permanent Undersecretary at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, and Chris Breeze, Managing Director of Ellipse Projects UK and Chair of the BOS Business Subcommittee. The session was moderated by Stanford and focused on opportunities for deeper bilateral cooperation across trade, infrastructure and innovation. Stanford said the discussions highlighted 'the growing momentum in UK-Oman trade relations and the shared ambition to deepen this economic cooperation through mutual investment'. He noted that the long-standing ties between the two countries continue to provide a strong foundation for future collaboration. Following the panel, guests attended the BOS Summer Business Reception, co-hosted by Omani British Society, which is chaired by Saleh Zakwani. Khimji and Tom Wintle, UK Chief Negotiator for the GCC Free Trade Agreement, addressed the gathering as Guests of Honour. The event was attended by the ambassadors of both countries, senior government officials, and representatives from a wide range of industries in the UK and Oman. Discussions throughout the evening reflected a shared commitment to identifying new opportunities for cooperation, innovation and sustainable growth.
Zawya
28-04-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
Oman-UK partnership seeks investments and regional stability
MUSCAT: The partnership between the Sultanate of Oman and the United Kingdom (UK) has evolved into a multifaceted relationship that encompasses economic, security and cultural dimensions. This alliance is characterised by a shared commitment to regional stability, mutual investment opportunities and collaborative efforts in addressing regional challenges. In an interview with the Observer, Hamish Falconer, UK Minister for Middle East and North Africa, who was in Muscat recently, said Oman and UK have been working closely to address regional security challenges. 'We have a long history of working together to tackle the most pressing challenges the region faces. I am committed to ensuring that this continues. During our meeting, I discussed the need for Israel and Hamas to urgently return to the ceasefire deal, so that hostages can return to their families, much needed aid can be delivered, and we can move towards ending the violence. Our priority since day one has been a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza, and a lasting peace that will over time ensure security for both Palestinians and Israelis.' 'Oman has an important role to play in the region, as evidenced by their success in facilitating the release of the crew members aboard the 'Galaxy Leader' cargo ship detained by Ansar Allah in the Red Sea earlier this year. The UK government congratulated the Government of Oman for this, and continues to work alongside Oman, to support UN efforts in finding a political solution in Yemen,' he added. Falconer said he welcome Oman's efforts to broker talks between the US and Iran in Muscat. 'This is an important step in finding a diplomatic solution to Iran's nuclear issue, but time is short, and the UK continues to support this process,' he said. BILATERAL TIES On primary priorities for strengthening the UK-Oman bilateral relationship, Falconer said: 'Let me begin by saying I was delighted to visit Oman and was struck by its stunning mountains, desert, and coast, as well as the warmth of its people. It is a special country, and I am eager to return. The UK and Oman relationship is truly special. I feel honoured to have visited Muscat to experience its natural beauty and celebrate the 225th anniversary of the 'Unshook treaty'. This treaty expresses our desire for our friendship to 'remain unshook until the end of time'.' 'That desire remains as strong today as it was 225 years ago. As long-standing friends, our co-operation now spans many fields, from business and trade to education, culture, defence and security. 'In our talks we set out our priorities for strengthening further the UK-Oman relationship, including working together to enhance regional stability, boosting our shared economic growth, and supporting clean energy initiatives,' he said. STRONG LINKS Falconer said there were discussions on how to improve existing education cooperation, and the growing travel and tourism between our countries. 'Our strong people-to-people links are the bedrock under all of these areas which are crucial for the delivery of the UK's Plan for Change agenda and the realisation of Oman Vision 2040,' he said. On how the UK and Oman can promote economic stability and address environmental concerns, Falconer said: 'The UK is Oman's biggest investment partner, accounting for over 50 per cent of all foreign direct investment in the Sultanate of Oman. We continue to work together to support mutual economic growth, making it easier for both UK businesses in Oman and Omani businesses in the UK to thrive.' 'During our dialogue, I discussed promising progress on the UK/GCC FTA negotiations and how we are looking to finalise a deal, which could increase bilateral trade by up to 16 per cent, adding an extra £8.6 billion a year to trade between the UK and GCC countries in the long run, as well as supporting job creation,' he added. HYDROGEN SECTOR Falconer said UK businesses are investing heavily in Oman's green hydrogen sector – with UK companies leading 5 of the 8 concessions agreed to date, supporting our shared green growth ambitions. 'New partnerships in this area will not only benefit our economies but also contribute to global efforts to combat climate change,' he said. In regards to the current humanitarian situation in Gaza following recent escalations, Falconer said, 'I have repeatedly highlighted my horror at the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza, both in my public statements and during my engagements with the Government of Israel. Diplomacy, not more bloodshed, is how we will achieve a lasting peace.' 'The blocking of aid into Gaza is undoing the vital progress made during the ceasefire, with food, fuel and medical supplies running out, causing immense suffering across Gaza. Humanitarian aid should never be contingent on a ceasefire or used as a political tool. We continue to call on Israel, including at the UN Security Council and in our meetings with Israeli ministers, to allow for a rapid and unhindered resurgence in the flow of aid into Gaza,' he added. Falconer said the UK's joint statement with France and Germany on March 21 called on Israel to allow the flow of aid, ensure civilians are protected. 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Observer
27-04-2025
- Politics
- Observer
Oman-UK partnership seeks investments and regional stability
MUSCAT: The partnership between the Sultanate of Oman and the United Kingdom (UK) has evolved into a multifaceted relationship that encompasses economic, security and cultural dimensions. This alliance is characterised by a shared commitment to regional stability, mutual investment opportunities and collaborative efforts in addressing regional challenges. In an interview with the Observer, Hamish Falconer, UK Minister for Middle East and North Africa, who was in Muscat recently, said Oman and UK have been working closely to address regional security challenges. 'We have a long history of working together to tackle the most pressing challenges the region faces. I am committed to ensuring that this continues. During our meeting, I discussed the need for Israel and Hamas to urgently return to the ceasefire deal, so that hostages can return to their families, much needed aid can be delivered, and we can move towards ending the violence. Our priority since day one has been a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza, and a lasting peace that will over time ensure security for both Palestinians and Israelis.' 'Oman has an important role to play in the region, as evidenced by their success in facilitating the release of the crew members aboard the 'Galaxy Leader' cargo ship detained by Ansar Allah in the Red Sea earlier this year. The UK government congratulated the Government of Oman for this, and continues to work alongside Oman, to support UN efforts in finding a political solution in Yemen,' he added. Falconer said he welcome Oman's efforts to broker talks between the US and Iran in Muscat. 'This is an important step in finding a diplomatic solution to Iran's nuclear issue, but time is short, and the UK continues to support this process,' he said. BILATERAL TIES On primary priorities for strengthening the UK-Oman bilateral relationship, Falconer said: 'Let me begin by saying I was delighted to visit Oman and was struck by its stunning mountains, desert, and coast, as well as the warmth of its people. It is a special country, and I am eager to return. The UK and Oman relationship is truly special. I feel honoured to have visited Muscat to experience its natural beauty and celebrate the 225th anniversary of the 'Unshook treaty'. This treaty expresses our desire for our friendship to 'remain unshook until the end of time'.' 'That desire remains as strong today as it was 225 years ago. As long-standing friends, our co-operation now spans many fields, from business and trade to education, culture, defence and security. 'In our talks we set out our priorities for strengthening further the UK-Oman relationship, including working together to enhance regional stability, boosting our shared economic growth, and supporting clean energy initiatives,' he said. STRONG LINKS Falconer said there were discussions on how to improve existing education cooperation, and the growing travel and tourism between our countries. 'Our strong people-to-people links are the bedrock under all of these areas which are crucial for the delivery of the UK's Plan for Change agenda and the realisation of Oman Vision 2040,' he said. On how the UK and Oman can promote economic stability and address environmental concerns, Falconer said: 'The UK is Oman's biggest investment partner, accounting for over 50 per cent of all foreign direct investment in the Sultanate of Oman. We continue to work together to support mutual economic growth, making it easier for both UK businesses in Oman and Omani businesses in the UK to thrive.' 'During our dialogue, I discussed promising progress on the UK/GCC FTA negotiations and how we are looking to finalise a deal, which could increase bilateral trade by up to 16 per cent, adding an extra £8.6 billion a year to trade between the UK and GCC countries in the long run, as well as supporting job creation,' he added. HYDROGEN SECTOR Falconer said UK businesses are investing heavily in Oman's green hydrogen sector – with UK companies leading 5 of the 8 concessions agreed to date, supporting our shared green growth ambitions. 'New partnerships in this area will not only benefit our economies but also contribute to global efforts to combat climate change,' he said. In regards to the current humanitarian situation in Gaza following recent escalations, Falconer said, 'I have repeatedly highlighted my horror at the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza, both in my public statements and during my engagements with the Government of Israel. Diplomacy, not more bloodshed, is how we will achieve a lasting peace.' 'The blocking of aid into Gaza is undoing the vital progress made during the ceasefire, with food, fuel and medical supplies running out, causing immense suffering across Gaza. Humanitarian aid should never be contingent on a ceasefire or used as a political tool. We continue to call on Israel, including at the UN Security Council and in our meetings with Israeli ministers, to allow for a rapid and unhindered resurgence in the flow of aid into Gaza,' he added. Falconer said the UK's joint statement with France and Germany on March 21 called on Israel to allow the flow of aid, ensure civilians are protected.
Times of Oman
09-02-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
British Month: Connecting Cultures, Shaping Futures, Enduring Friendship
February 2025 marks the celebration of British Month, kicking off a significant year for the UK-Oman friendship. This year commemorates the 225th anniversary of the 1800 'Unshook Agreement', which expressed the hope that "the friendship of the two States may remain Unshook till the end of time, and till the sun and the moon have finished their revolving career." The historic bond between our nations was rooted in trade and diplomacy, and today, this relationship continues to evolve. As we "Connect Cultures," people-to-people ties are at the heart of our shared experience—whether through our mutual love for sport, food, film, education of more. Throughout February, we will celebrate the best of British and Omani culture with a series of activities designed to bring us closer together. This enduring friendship also looks forward. Together, we are committed to shaping a shared future—strengthening trade relations, supporting economic diversification, and advancing sustainability. Through collaborative partnerships and exchanges, the UK and Oman are building a foundation for resilient, diversified economies that will benefit future generations.
