SALALAH: Dhofar University hosted the second international frankincense forum on Sunday. The two-day forum brought together scientists and researchers from more than 13 countries to discuss the latest advancements in frankincense and other plants.
The forum was inaugurated by Dr Saud bin Hamoud al Habsi, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources. He emphasised the ministry's commitment to collaborate with various partners, including governmental and academic institutions. The recently signed memorandum of understanding with Dhofar University strengthens the partnership between the university and the ministry, particularly in the realms of frankincense and related industries. This collaboration extends to aromatic plants, whether utilised for health-related purposes or other industrial applications.
Dr Al Habsi explained that this cooperation programme with Dhofar University will involve joint efforts among the ministry, the university, and the private sector. This collaborative initiative will persist across various facets of the agricultural and livestock sectors.
He underscored the forum's significance, highlighting the substantial participation of specialised researchers in the field of frankincense, both domestically and internationally. Their presence contributes to advancing research in the realm of frankincense and disseminating knowledge about frankincense products. Dr Al Habsi also noted a growing interest among researchers and students, especially regarding the manufacturing aspect, with numerous companies operating in this domain. The ministry is actively promoting expansion and has designated specific lands for investment solely for the purpose of increasing frankincense cultivation, in addition to existing reserves. This expansion aims to yield positive outcomes for preserving the frankincense tree in the Sultanate of Oman.
In his opening remarks, Amer al Rawas, the university president, said, "Frankincense has a long history in Oman, dating back to the BC era. It is a valuable commodity that has been used for its therapeutic, religious, and medical properties. The frankincense tree is a symbol of life in Dhofar, and the land of Al Baleed in Salalah has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its importance to the frankincense trade."
Al Rawas also mentioned that Dhofar University is committed to scientific research and innovation. The university has established a specialised research centre with a focus on biodiversity, notably in frankincense and plant research. The centre has collaborated with experts from Germany, France, Italy, China, Morocco, and the Sultanate of Oman.
The frankincense forum featured presentations of 45 scientific research papers, as well as lectures and studies on frankincense and local plants. The event was attended by delegations from universities and scientific institutes in Germany, France, Switzerland, Australia, India, China, and the United States. Representatives from Arab nations such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, and Morocco also attended.
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