The Foreign Minister of Oman, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, recently met with António Guterres, the Secretary General of the United Nations, during his official visit to Oman. The meeting focused on the cooperation between Oman and the UN, highlighting partnerships in humanitarian and environmental initiatives, sustainable development, and efforts to promote peace and stability based on international law. The discussion also touched upon current global challenges and the situation in Gaza and the Palestinian territories due to the ongoing illegal Israeli occupation, which was condemned for its violation of international conventions and humanitarian norms.
During the meeting, Sayyid Badr emphasized the need for Israel to be held accountable for its actions, urging for an immediate ceasefire, the lifting of the siege, and the unrestricted entry of humanitarian aid. He called upon the international community, especially the Security Council, to take decisive action in addressing these issues. On his part, the UN Secretary General praised Oman’s role in fostering peace and stability through dialogue and understanding, highlighting the country’s efforts in bringing various viewpoints closer together.
Both sides agreed that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict can only be resolved through a two-state solution, involving the end of the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state in accordance with relevant Security Council resolutions. The meeting was attended by officials from both sides, including Sheikh Khalifa bin Ali Al Harthy, Undersecretary of the Foreign Ministry for Political Affairs, and Mohammed Khaled Khairi, Assistant Secretary-General for Middle East, Asia, and the Pacific in the Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations.
Overall, the meeting between Sayyid Badr and António Guterres highlighted the importance of cooperation between Oman and the United Nations in addressing global challenges and promoting peace and stability. The condemnation of the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories and the call for immediate action to alleviate human suffering in Gaza underscored the commitment of both parties to upholding international law and humanitarian principles. Moving forward, efforts will continue towards finding a lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and supporting initiatives that contribute to regional and international peace and security.