Wednesday 24 / September / 2025
New York: The Sultanate of Oman on Wednesday participated in the Joint Ministerial Meeting between the GCC countries and the United Kingdom (UK), held on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
In his statement, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, Foreign Minister, emphasised the deep historical relations linking Oman and the GCC countries with the UK and the growing cooperation in defence, security, trade, renewable energy, logistics, and communication. He noted that this partnership benefits the security and stability of both regions and opens wider avenues for cooperation in the educational, technical, and cultural fields.
Sayyid Badr also expressed the GCC countries' anticipation of the successful conclusion of the Free Trade Agreement negotiations with the UK, viewing it as a strong framework that will unleash the full potential of the existing economic partnership and boost the flow of investments and trade, which is valued at billions of dollars annually.
On political matters, the Foreign Minister highlighted the meeting held last July between His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, and UK’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer. He affirmed that this meeting reflects the depth of consultations and shared understandings between the two friendly countries.
Oman and the GCC countries also welcomed the UK's decision to recognise the State of Palestine, considering it an important step towards achieving justice and a fundamental pillar for implementing the two-state solution.
He stressed that confronting Israeli violations and the practices of the extremist government led by Benjamin Netanyahu requires bold, practical measures. These measures must include halting military cooperation and applying serious pressure on Israel to engage in a genuine political process that leads to ending the suffering of the Palestinian people and guaranteeing their legitimate rights.
The Foreign Minister stressed that achieving lasting security and peace will only be realised through justice and empowering Palestinians with their full rights to self-determination and the establishment of their independent state. He warned against any attempts by external powers to impose a Palestinian leadership, asserting that such an approach would exacerbate the crisis rather than contribute to its resolution.
Sayyid Badr concluded his statement by affirming that Oman's relations with the UK are based on openness, pragmatism, and mutual respect. The Sultanate of Oman looks forward to continuing work with the UK and the GCC countries to enhance security, stability, and a just peace in the region and the world at large.
