UK and Oman Reaffirm Commitment to Strengthening Bilateral Relations Across Various Fields
Reaffirmation of commitment to strengthening relations in defense, trade, and investment
Translated by Qiyas from كونا — Original source
London, October 23 (KUNA) -- The United Kingdom and the Sultanate of Oman reaffirmed today, Friday, their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations across various fields. This came in a joint statement issued following the state visit by Sultan Haitham bin Tariq to the United Kingdom from October 20 to 22, which noted the two countries’ agreement to consolidate ties in defense, security, trade, and investment.
The statement clarified that during the summit meeting between Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, both sides agreed to update their strategic partnership and coordinate efforts at the regional and international levels. It further noted that the two sides discussed preparations aimed at finalizing the free trade agreement between the United Kingdom and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
Additionally, both sides agreed to deepen military cooperation and collaboration in the defense industries through joint exercises, technological innovation, cybersecurity, and the exchange of maritime information. The two countries called for enhancing regional stability and achieving a peaceful resolution to conflicts in the Gulf region, and expressed their support for a two-state solution in the Middle East.
The United Kingdom and the Sultanate of Oman reaffirmed their respect for international law, including the sovereignty of the Sultanate of Oman over its waters in the Strait of Hormuz, and stressed the necessity of ensuring freedom of navigation and the safe passage of international vessels.
On the economic front, the two countries agreed to expand cooperation in the fields of renewable energy, artificial intelligence, critical minerals, space technology, and advanced industries. They also announced the signing of an agreement to increase the available financing capacity for the Sultanate of Oman from £1.6 billion ($2.14 billion) to £7 billion ($9.38 billion), which will support British exports and investment opportunities.
Both sides pledged to continue enhancing cooperation in all feasible areas, reflecting the strength of their existing relations. (End) A.S.H / R.J
