Joint Oman-UK working group meets in Muscat

Omani and British officials met in Muscat for the 18th session of the joint Oman-UK Working Group, reviewing bilateral relations and ways to broaden cooperation.

Sheikh Khalifa Ali Al Harthy, Oman’s Foreign Ministry undersecretary for political affairs, and Stephen Doughty, the British minister of state responsible for the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan and Pakistan, co-chaired the meeting.

The discussions covered British expertise and experience in developing education, vocational training and sports. The two sides also considered ways to revive tourism between the countries and strengthen cultural exchange and participation.

Regional and international issues were discussed, with particular attention to developments in the region. The meeting highlighted Oman’s efforts to find diplomatic solutions to the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, with the stated aim of supporting de-escalation, security and stability.

The meeting was attended by Liane Saunders, the British ambassador to Oman, as well as officials from Oman’s Foreign Ministry and representatives of relevant government bodies.