The Omani-Belarusian Business Forum that took place in Muscat focused on enhancing economic and trade relations between the two countries, as well as promoting trade exchange and addressing challenges faced by investors. The event, organized by the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), highlighted various economic sectors such as tourism, industry, logistics, importing and exporting, food security, and information and communication technologies (ICT). Eng. Hamoud Salim Al Sa’adi, Acting OCCI Chairman, emphasized the Chamber’s efforts to strengthen economic and trade relations with Belarus through high-level visits and meetings, resulting in positive outcomes.
Bogdanov Alexei, Minister of Antimonopoly Regulation and Trade in Belarus, expressed his country’s eagerness to enhance relations with Oman, citing Oman’s potential as a gateway for Belarusian products to markets in the GCC and Asia. He discussed opportunities for collaboration in industrial production, agriculture, and information technology. Belarus is keen on supporting cooperation in various fields, particularly in information technology, given the presence of a successful incubator housing numerous IT companies. Dr. Abdullah Masoud Al Harthy, Honorary Consul of Belarus and OCCI Board member, underscored the Omani private sector’s interest in Belarus as a promising economic and investment partner.
The Omani-Belarusian Business Forum served as a platform for business owners from both countries to strengthen ties and explore trade and investment opportunities. It aimed to facilitate shipping, import-export routes, and cooperation in various areas of mutual interest. Several significant agreements were signed during the forum, including a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between OCCI and the Belarusian National Centre for Marketing and Price Study. This partnership involves exchanging information related to external trade, business environment, production opportunities, and investment trends. Another MoU was signed between ONEIC and Belarus Hi Tech Park Company, focusing on ICT and advanced technologies.
Additionally, Omani Euro Food Industries SAOG and Minsk Dairy Factory signed an MoU to collaborate on retail business in Oman and potentially expand to neighboring markets. The forum highlighted investment and commercial opportunities in Oman, showcasing projects aligned with Oman Vision 2040. B2B meetings between Omani and Belarusian business leaders were held on the sidelines of the event. The forum was attended by Qais Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, along with officials from both nations, indicating the significance of the forum in strengthening bilateral relations and fostering economic cooperation.