H M’s visit to bolster bilateral ties
His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik's state visit to Kuwait today and his meeting with Sheikh Mishal al Ahmad al Jaber al Sabah, Emir of the State of Kuwait, marks a significant step in strengthening the longstanding bilateral relations between Oman and Kuwait.
The visit underscores the shared goals between the two nations, known for their rolemodel status in handling regional and global issues with a similar diplomatic stance.
Jasem Mohamed al Budaiwi, Secretary-general of GCC, stated that His Majesty the Sultan's visit is pivotal for enhancing the bonds of brotherhood among GCC countries and advancing Gulf integration. "It is an important building block in the path of joint Gulf action."
Dr Saleh bin Amer al Kharousi, Oman’s Ambassador to Kuwait, highlighted the visit's critical role in reinforcing the exceptional existing bilateral relations across various sectors. He pointed out a surge in Kuwaiti trade and investments in Oman, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing, real estate, hospitality, commerce and financial services. "There is continuous coordination on several regional and international issues, as both countries share a similar foreign policy and are committed to fostering peace and rejecting violence," he added.
During the visit, several memorandums of understanding and executive programmes in economic, cultural and artistic fields are expected to be signed, indicating deeper economic and cultural engagement. Additionally, the ambassador informed of an increase in Kuwaiti tourism to Oman, with the number of visitors rising from 32,000 in 2022 to 40,000 in 2023.
Kuwaiti journalist Ahmed al Jarallah considers the visit a momentous occasion to cement fraternal ties. "Kuwait is an important investor in Oman. The visit reflects the significant potential for further beneficial agreements."
National Centre for Statistics and Information data indicates a robust increase in trade and investment between the two nations. In 2023, the volume of trade surged 211% to approximately Ro876.72mn from Ro281.85mn in 2022. Direct investments from Kuwait amounted to Ro830.9mn at the end of 2023. Omani exports grew 24.2% to Ro133.39mn, while imports from Kuwait saw a dramatic increase of 410% to Ro669.46mn.
Faisal bin Abdullah al Rawas, Chairman of Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, commended the thriving economic cooperation, which transcends traditional friendship and is evident in the growing partnerships across various sectors, including industry, real estate, mining, livestock, fisheries, food industries and tourism. "The efforts of the private sector in both countries to capitalise on investment opportunities are strengthening economic ties and expanding areas of cooperation and mutual investment," he stated.
The state visit will not only reinforce the strong diplomatic ties between Oman and Kuwait but also set the stage for deeper economic integration and cooperative ventures that promise prosperity for both nations.
Thriving economic cooperation is evident in growing partnerships across various sectors
FAISAL AL RAWAS
The state visit is an important building block in the path of joint Gulf action
JASEM AL BUDAIWI