Historic Diplomatic Visit: Oman and Iraq Strengthen Ties

Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi visited Iraq, marking the first trip by an Omani foreign minister. Key agreements were signed to boost trade, economy, and cultural ties. The officials discussed regional issues, particularly the conflicts in Gaza and Syria, underlining the commitment to cooperation and stability.

Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi made a historic visit to Iraq, marking the first official trip by an Omani foreign minister to Baghdad. During his meeting with Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al Sudani, the two nations expressed commitment to enhancing bilateral relations. The ministerial level Omani-Iraqi Joint Committee convened for the first time, resulting in the signing of several important Memorandums of Understanding that cover trade, economy, political cooperation, culture, and investment. This collaboration is intended to unlock significant opportunities for Omani businesses in Iraq’s developing sectors.

Prime Minister Al Sudani described the visit as vital, emphasizing, “It is indeed an important and historic visit, for the first time an Omani foreign minister visits Baghdad.” He further highlighted the commitment to strengthening cooperation between the two countries, while Albusaidi underscored the importance of fostering partnerships that would yield mutual benefits.

The discussions also addressed critical regional issues, notably the ongoing conflict in Gaza, where Iraq affirmed its strong support for humanitarian efforts and a ceasefire. Iraq’s Foreign Minister reiterated Iraq’s stance on the Palestinian cause, stating, “We support the Palestinian cause and advocate for a ceasefire in Gaza.” Additionally, both sides discussed the delicate situation in Syria, expressing concerns about the resurgence of ISIS and the potential security threats emanating from the region, with a shared commitment to work collaboratively to maintain stability and security.

The diplomatic visit by Oman’s Foreign Minister signifies a paradigm shift in relations between Iraq and Oman, reflecting a mutual desire for enhanced cooperation across various sectors. This three-day visit included significant discussions on how to bolster trade and political ties amidst growing regional challenges, including the conflicts in Gaza and Syria. It underscores a broader trend of regional diplomacy aimed at establishing greater economic ties while addressing shared security concerns.

The historic visit of Oman’s Foreign Minister to Iraq marks a significant step towards strengthened diplomatic and economic relations between the two nations. With various agreements signed to enhance collaboration in sectors such as trade and culture, both countries are poised to benefit from an era of increased partnership. As they navigate shared regional challenges, their commitment to cooperation is crucial for fostering stability and economic growth in both Iraq and Oman.

Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com