The Foreign Minister of Oman, Sayyid Badr Hamad Al Busaidi, met with Luigi Di Maio, Special Representative of the European Union for the Gulf, to discuss areas of bilateral cooperation between Oman and the EU. The two officials highlighted the importance of maritime security as well as cooperation in technical, economic, and cultural fields. They expressed their commitment to supporting trade liberalization between the GCC and EU, as well as efforts to achieve mutual visa cancellation.
The discussion also touched upon the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, which has been exacerbated by Israeli aggression. The officials emphasized the urgent need to end the conflict and hold Israel accountable for the destruction of infrastructure and public utilities in Gaza. They called for a Two-State Solution based on international law and UN resolutions, as well as a ceasefire and the lifting of the blockade on Gaza to allow for much-needed relief aid to reach the population.
The meeting was attended by officials from both sides, including Sheikh Ahmed Hashel Al Maskari, Head of the GCC Department at the Foreign Ministry, and Christophe Farnaud, Ambassador of the EU to Oman. The discussions underscored the shared commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region, as well as the importance of international cooperation in addressing humanitarian crises and upholding human rights.
Overall, the meeting between the Omani Foreign Minister and the EU Special Representative reflected a strong commitment to enhancing cooperation between Oman and the EU in various areas, including maritime security, trade liberalization, and humanitarian assistance. The discussions also highlighted the need for a just and lasting resolution to the conflict in Gaza, based on international law and respect for human rights. Both sides expressed their support for efforts to promote peace and stability in the region, as well as their willingness to work together to address common challenges.