His Excellency Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, led the Omani delegation to the United States from September 5 to 13, 2024. The purpose of the visit was to strengthen investment and trade partnerships between the two countries and to showcase investment opportunities in Oman as part of Oman Vision 2040. The delegation focused on leveraging the benefits of the Free Trade Agreement between Oman and the United States to achieve common interests.
Throughout the visit, the delegation traveled to various U.S. cities, including Arizona, New York, and Washington, D.C., where they held meetings with U.S. government officials and members of Congress. Additionally, the delegation engaged in bilateral meetings and roundtable discussions with prominent U.S. companies in industries such as energy, healthcare, information technology, and tourism. The goal was to foster collaboration and explore potential partnerships between Omani and American businesses.
Apart from official meetings, Minister Al Yousef also met with Omani students studying in the United States in cities like New York, Washington, D.C., and Arizona. This interaction provided an opportunity for the Minister to connect with the Omani youth abroad and gain insights into their experiences and aspirations. It also underscored Oman’s commitment to supporting its citizens’ educational pursuits and fostering a strong diaspora presence.
As part of the visit, the Embassy of Oman in the United States organized a reception at the Sultan Qaboos Cultural Center in Washington, D.C. The event was attended by high-profile individuals such as Judith Pryor, Vice Chair of the U.S. Export-Import Bank, and the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Commerce for the Middle East and Africa. Government officials and business leaders from both countries were also present. Omani Deputy Chief of Mission Sabra bint Ahmed Al Hooti welcomed the guests, followed by remarks from Minister Al Yousef and Vice Chair Pryor, highlighting the objectives of the visit and praising Oman’s efforts to enhance economic cooperation.
To conclude the visit, the delegation participated in a guided tour of the Sultan Qaboos Cultural Center, where they learned about the center’s various functions and explored Omani cultural exhibits. This cultural exchange provided a deeper understanding of Oman’s rich heritage and traditions, fostering greater appreciation and mutual understanding between the two nations. Overall, the visit served as a platform to strengthen ties, forge new partnerships, and promote economic cooperation between Oman and the United States.
