MUSCAT: Omani-French bilateral relations have grown by leaps and bounds over the past three years, characterised by notable strides made by the French Republic in supporting Oman’s developmental ambitions in various fields.
An overview of this significant uptick in bilateral ties between the two friendly nations was shared by Véronique Aulagnon, French Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman, in an exclusive interview to mark Bastille Day – also known as French National Day – celebrated on July 14 annually.
Highlighting the depth of Omani-French relations, Aulagnon noted, "While we celebrated the 50th anniversary of our diplomatic relations in 2022, our bilateral ties go back 400 years, based on mutual trust and shared values, including a commitment to dialogue and respect for international law. Together with the Omani authorities, we are taking several initiatives to build on this strong legacy, focusing on diplomacy and security, business, education, and culture."
The Ambassador noted in particular the blossoming of ties across the gamut of the bilateral relationship. Over the past three years, joint efforts have increased the French presence in the Sultanate of Oman, expanding into new priority sectors identified in 'Oman Vision 2040', including renewables and green hydrogen, fisheries, tourism, and potentially transport. The contribution of these companies to technology transfer and training is highly recognised, and there are ongoing initiatives to promote joint investments.
On the business front, Aulagnon highlighted efforts to strengthen business-to-business connections and mutual investments between the two friendly countries. She noted that over 40 French companies have been operating in Oman, particularly in energy, security, water, and waste management sectors, some for many decades.
More than 40 French companies are currently operating in sectors such as water and waste management, energy, certification, communication, food services, and military and security, reflecting the strength of economic ties between the two countries, she said.
Ambassador Aulagnon pointed out that while bilateral trade remains limited, amounting to around €450 million in 2023, it is an underestimate due to most French merchandise transiting through the UAE. French exports are also more dependent on major contracts compared to those of other countries, she explained.
Turning to burgeoning ties on the perfumery front, the Ambassador pointed out that Amouage enjoys strong cooperation with French perfumers from its inception to the present. She expressed keen interest in reports of a potential partnership with French giant L’Oreal and emphasised that Oman shares a national passion for perfumes and boasts unique ingredients such as Luban and Jebel Akhdar roses.
France has always excelled in the creation of perfumes, deeply rooted in its culture, the Ambassador noted, adding that there have been ongoing discussions about various perfume deals between France and Oman, including the possibility of a scholarship for an Omani student to study perfumery in France.
Additionally, Ambassador Aulagnon expressed pride in an array of new initiatives aimed at fostering people-to-people relationships in education and culture. She mentioned in this regard the launch of a joint scholarship program for Master's degrees, enabling over 20 Omani students to study in France, renowned for its top universities, research centers, and incubators.
In Muscat, the French International School of Muscat has been expanded and now offers a fully accredited bilingual French curriculum, along with the French Omani Cultural Center of Muscat. Numerous initiatives have showcased French culture, including the annual flagship festival, the ‘French Weeks.’ Efforts are also underway to support the development of cultural and creative industries in Oman, particularly in the movie industry and fashion, she said.
In the interview, Ambassador Aulagnon also highlighted the renovation of the French Omani Museum, ‘Bait Faransa. Renovation work was initiated in 2023, with France contributing its expertise to transform it into a vibrant space for young people and artists, she said.
The Ambassador reflected on the achievements made over the past three years across diplomacy and security, business, education, and culture. She expressed particular pride in initiatives promoting people-to-people relations, such as the joint Master scholarship programme, the expansion of French language programmes in schools, cross-cultural exhibitions, and collaborations supporting Omani designers and the burgeoning movie industry. She highlighted the Embassy's active role in cultural exchange, emphasising the importance of fostering invisible yet crucial connections between nations.
Ambassador Aulagnon expressed happiness in exploring Oman's diverse landscapes and communities, from Muscat to Nizwa, Salalah to Khasab, and many other places. She expressed joy in cultivating ties with Omanis across various sectors and with the international and French communities supporting Oman's development and embracing French culture.
Ambassador Aulagnon extended gratitude to the Omani authorities, led by His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, for their support and friendship throughout her tenure. She conveyed heartfelt wishes for continued peace and prosperity for the Sultanate of Oman and its people.
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