Oman and Iran discuss proposal to establish and clear a joint temporary shipping lane through the Strait of Hormuz of mines

Muscat, August 25 (KUNA) -- Oman and Iran discussed today, Tuesday, a proposed interim framework for establishing a joint temporary shipping lane through the Strait of Hormuz and agreed to implement a joint project to clear it of mines. This was stated in an Omani-Iranian joint statement released by the Omani Ministry of Foreign Affairs following consultations between Omani Foreign Minister Badr Al-Busaidi and his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, in Tehran. The two sides discussed an interim framework that would provide a practical and implementable basis in light of the current situation in the strait. The Omani Foreign Ministry noted that the “constructive” consultations focused on the importance both countries attach to resuming safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, safeguarding their sovereignty and sovereign rights. It clarified that technical negotiations between the two sides would continue “with the aim of reaching an agreement on a permanent shipping lane and future arrangements for managing the strait, as well as establishing a mechanism for information exchange and managing navigation, and providing related navigational and security services.” It added that both sides emphasized the importance of holding joint discussions with the Gulf coastal states and stressed the necessity of adhering to the provisions of international law and respecting the sovereign rights of coastal states. (End) M.J.B. / M.A.A.