Oman and Russia Strengthen Strategic Ties with New Agreements and Visa-Free Travel
In a pivotal meeting at the Kremlin, Russian President Vladimir Putin welcomed His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman, celebrating 40 years of diplomatic ties between the two nations. The discussions marked a renewed commitment to enhancing Oman-Russia relations across critical sectors including trade, energy, investment, and agriculture.
President Putin praised the Sultan’s deep-rooted connection with Russia, recalling his pivotal role in establishing formal relations in 1985. “We have a strong history and are now working to develop a robust legal and economic framework to push our cooperation forward,” Putin said.
His Majesty’s official visit also brought together senior government officials and business leaders, culminating in the signing of multiple bilateral agreements and memorandums of understanding, the formation of a joint economic committee, and a key development—visa-free travel for citizens of both countries, aimed at fostering deeper cultural and economic ties.
New Economic Chapter: From Trade to Innovation
Quais Al Yousef, Oman’s Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, described the Sultan’s visit as a “historic turning point in bilateral cooperation” and a catalyst for elevating economic relations to more integrated levels.
He highlighted targeted sectors such as industry, logistics, tourism, food security, energy, advanced technology, and manufacturing, where Oman and Russia seek to activate strategic partnerships. “We are committed to deepening cooperation in innovation and knowledge exchange to enhance competitiveness and achieve sustainable growth,” the minister stated.
He noted that the visit crowns ongoing efforts from both governments and the private sector. Key outcomes include the signing of the Economic and Technical Cooperation Protocol, the formation of a Joint Economic Committee, and memorandums in areas such as climate change, low-carbon development, transportation, and transit. These agreements aim to strengthen the institutional framework for cooperation and offer real platforms for private sector collaboration.
Al Yousef also stressed that Oman-Russia relations go beyond shared interests, serving as a model of mutual understanding and constructive openness to the future. He expressed aspirations for deeper economic integration, supply chain development, and joint efforts in digital transformation and the green economy, aligned with both nations’ visions for sustainable development.
Shared Vision for Global Stability
In a joint statement, His Majesty the Sultan and President Putin affirmed their shared diplomatic vision rooted in respect for international law and the United Nations Charter, emphasizing the peaceful resolution of global conflicts.
The leaders also addressed the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling for an immediate and lasting ceasefire, urgent delivery of humanitarian aid, and the full withdrawal of occupation forces from Gaza and all occupied Palestinian territories. They stressed the importance of reconstruction efforts and ensuring the return of displaced people to their lands.
This deepening partnership between Oman and Russia reflects not only strategic alignment in economic priorities but also a shared commitment to global peace, sustainability, and innovation-driven growth.
