His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Chairs Council of Ministers Meeting
Muscat, January 1, 2025 – His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, may God protect and preserve him, presided over the Council of Ministers meeting this morning at Al Barakah Palace.
The session opened with His Majesty giving thanks to the Almighty for His blessings on Oman and expressing hopes that 2025 will witness continued achievements and the realization of aspirations charted during the past five years of Oman’s renewed renaissance. His Majesty prayed for the health and well-being of the nation and its citizens and for a prosperous future.
His Majesty commended the Council of Ministers, its committees, and government institutions for their significant contributions to comprehensive national development. The Council reviewed Oman’s economic and social progress in 2024, highlighting achievements in economic diversification, increased non-oil revenues, and expansion in key sectors. These initiatives have strengthened the national economy, improved public services, and supported priorities such as education, healthcare, and social welfare.
Key Directives and Discussions
1. Economic Growth and Diversification
- His Majesty emphasized the growing role of promising sectors in contributing to GDP and enhancing non-oil revenues.
- He directed the government to focus on economic growth drivers and encourage private sector participation in national projects and partnerships, leveraging Oman’s recent international trade agreements.
- The importance of implementing the national policy for local content to promote Omani industries, reduce imports, and increase exports was also stressed.
2. Development Plans and Vision 2040
- The Council reviewed the 2025 state budget, the final budget of the current Five-Year Development Plan (2021–2025), and preparations for the 11th Development Plan (2026–2030).
- His Majesty urged alignment of the upcoming plan with Oman Vision 2040’s priorities, focusing on value-added projects, economic growth, and employment opportunities.
3. Healthcare Enhancements
- His Majesty praised the Ministry of Health for its achievements and approved initiatives to enhance specialized healthcare services.
- Projects include:
- Establishing a National Genome and Human Data Program for genetic research.
- Setting up a National Center for Ophthalmology to meet growing demand and adopt advanced treatment technologies.
- Launching a nationwide cancer screening program with new early-detection units.
- Expanding nuclear medicine services through a dedicated facility for producing radiopharmaceuticals.
4. Social Welfare and Employment
- His Majesty stressed the importance of monitoring Oman’s social protection system to ensure its effectiveness and sustainability.
- Addressing employment challenges, he directed authorities to prioritize workforce localization and accelerate job creation for Omani citizens.
5. Demographic Challenges
- The Council discussed the socio-economic and cultural implications of demographic shifts and directed studies to address these challenges effectively.
6. Foreign Relations
- His Majesty highlighted successful diplomatic engagements in the past year and reaffirmed Oman’s commitment to international cooperation based on its principles and steadfast values.
In conclusion, His Majesty extended his guidance on various national matters, expressing his hopes for continued prosperity and well-being for Oman and its citizens.
