Muscat: Dr Nayef Falah Mubarak al Hajraf, GCC Secretary-General, said that the historic visit of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and his meeting with King Salman bin Abdulaziz al Saud of Saudi Arabia, cements the deep-rooted ties between the two countries.
The visit also responds to the hopes and aspirations of the peoples of the two states, he said. In A statement to Oman News Agency (ONA), Dr Al Hajraf underscored the significance of the visit, which, he said, reflects the wisdom and farsightedness of the leaders as they strive to enhance joint action.
He wished the GCC leaders success in realising further bounty, prosperity and security for their countries’ citizens. Al Hajraf Pointed out that GCC citizens look forward to this visit and appreciate the efforts made by GCC leaders and their keenness on consolidating intra-GCC action and realising their ambitions. “Great Hopes are pinned on the exceptional ties among GCC leaders, their consultations, joint visions, full understanding and keenness to cooperate in all that safeguards the GCC’s security and prosperity of its citizens,” Dr Al Hajraf said.
Dr Abdel Aziz Aluwaisheg, GCC Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs and Negotiation, said the near-term priority for both countries continues to be combating the epidemic until the recovery is entrenched.
“Efforts have focused on addressing the health crisis (including vaccine rollout), supporting the recovery, minimising economic scarring, and mitigating risks to financial stability.
To this end, with a substantial recent increase in vaccine supply, vaccine rollout has picked up quickly. Last year, Saudi Arabia adopted a plan to stimulate the economy and help the business sector deal with the pandemic’s challenges. Oman adopted an Economic Stimulus Plan in March 2021 to provide substantial support to affected sectors and strengthen the business environment. Both countries, first Saudi Arabia and now Oman, have introduced new taxes to shore up fiscal sustainability,” he wrote in Arab News ahead of HM’s visit to Saudi Arabia.
Dr Aluwaisheg hoped that the Sultan’s visit would chart a new path to further their shared interests and align their approaches to regional issues.
“Saudi Arabia and Oman share similar views on regional issues, although their diplomatic styles may differ on some issues. However, the integration of those styles and at times division of labour between them have served them well and contributed to the cause of peace, security and stability in the region.”
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
