In Video: $15 Billion Kuwaiti-Omani Investment

Oman’s Ambassador to Kuwait, Dr. Saleh Al-Kharousi, affirmed that Omani-Kuwaiti relations are advancing rapidly toward broader horizons of cooperation, emphasizing that the shared aspirations between the two countries “know no limits,” under the patronage and support provided by the leaderships of both brotherly nations.

These remarks came during statements he made to journalists on the sidelines of a farewell diwaniya held to mark the conclusion of his tenure as Oman’s ambassador to Kuwait, after six years of diplomatic service, during which he expressed his deep pride in the achievements accomplished.

In response to a question regarding the level of bilateral relations, he confirmed that Kuwait ranks third among the largest direct foreign investors in Oman, following the United Kingdom and the United States, while the volume of trade between the two countries continues to achieve positive growth rates.

Al-Kharousi revealed the implementation of a joint petrochemicals project valued at approximately $15 billion, describing it as the largest project of its kind between two Gulf states. He also announced a new Kuwaiti investment project in Oman, which will be unveiled once its formal procedures are completed, stressing that the Sultanate offers an attractive investment environment and flexible legislation that encourage the expansion of Kuwaiti investments.

He noted that the two countries signed around 20 agreements over the past six years, alongside nearly 20 memoranda of understanding still under review, expressing hope that they will be approved during the upcoming meetings of the Omani-Kuwaiti Joint Committee. Regarding the new Omani ambassador to Kuwait, he clarified that the selection has already been made and his name will be announced at the appropriate time.

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Oman’s Ambassador to Kuwait, Dr. Saleh Al-Kharousi, affirmed that Omani-Kuwaiti relations are advancing rapidly toward broader horizons of cooperation, emphasizing that the shared aspirations between the two countries “know no limits,” under the patronage and support provided by the leaderships of both brotherly nations.

This came in statements he made to journalists on the sidelines of a farewell diwaniya held to mark the conclusion of his tenure as Oman’s ambassador to Kuwait, after six years of diplomatic service. During the event, he expressed his deep pride in the achievements accomplished, coupled with sincere sorrow at leaving Kuwait, which he described as the most prominent milestone in his professional life.

Al-Kharousi stated that the past years witnessed a qualitative leap in bilateral relations, manifested in mutual visits between the leaderships of both countries and the expansion of cooperation in political, economic, investment, and developmental fields. He extended his gratitude to the heads and members of diplomatic missions, as well as to the Kuwaiti people, who surrounded him with love and appreciation throughout his tenure.

He added that leaving Kuwait is not an easy matter, acknowledging that the nature of diplomatic work necessitates rotation between countries, but affirming that Kuwait will always remain closest to his heart. He expressed confidence that his successor would continue to strengthen the close ties between the two nations.

He noted that the farewell diwaniya reflected the depth of fraternal bonds between the two peoples, while the large turnout demonstrated the magnitude of affection linking Oman and Kuwait. Al-Kharousi wished Kuwait continued security, stability, and prosperity under the leadership of His Highness Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad and His Highness Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled. He emphasized that words are insufficient to express the place Kuwait holds in his heart.

Responding to a question about the level of bilateral relations, he affirmed that Omani-Kuwaiti ties are “strong and growing firmer and more beautiful,” noting that direct support from the leaderships of both countries has contributed to significant progress across various levels. He clarified that Kuwait ranks third among the largest direct foreign investors in Oman, following the United Kingdom and the United States, while the volume of trade between the two countries continues to achieve positive growth rates.

Al-Kharousi revealed the implementation of a joint petrochemicals project valued at approximately $15 billion, describing it as the largest project of its kind between two Gulf states. He pointed out that bilateral cooperation also extends to tourism, mining, minerals, investment, and other vital sectors. He also announced a new Kuwaiti investment project in Oman, to be unveiled once its formal procedures are completed, stressing that the Sultanate offers an attractive investment environment and flexible legislation that encourages the expansion of Kuwaiti investments.

Regarding new agreements, he indicated that the two countries signed approximately 20 agreements over the past six years, alongside nearly 20 memoranda of understanding still under review. He expressed hope that these would be approved during the upcoming meetings of the Omani-Kuwaiti Joint Committee. On the matter of the new Omani ambassador to Kuwait, he clarified that the selection has already been made and the name will be announced at the appropriate time.

For his part, Minister of Health Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadi affirmed that his attendance at the farewell diwaniya was in appreciation of the entrenched fraternal relations between Kuwait and Oman, and for the sincere efforts made by Ambassador Dr. Saleh Al-Kharousi in enhancing bilateral cooperation. He stated that the large turnout embodied the strength of relations between the two peoples, emphasizing that Kuwaiti-Omani ties extend beyond official relations and constitute a model of genuine Gulf brotherhood. He praised the positive impact Ambassador Al-Kharousi left during his tenure.

From his perspective, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Defense Sheikh Dr. Abdullah Al-Mashal praised the role played by Ambassador Al-Kharousi in supporting relations between the two countries, affirming that everyone appreciates his significant efforts in consolidating joint cooperation. Addressing the Omani ambassador, he said, “You have fulfilled your duty and been faithful, and words fail to thank you for what you have contributed throughout your time in Kuwait,” wishing him continued success and achievement in his future endeavors.