MUSCAT, DEC 28: The First Asian Arab Business Forum 2024 brought together experts, diplomats and representatives from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP) to explore new avenues of international cooperation and strengthen economic ties between Asia, the Arab world and other global regions.
Organised by the Asian Arab Chamber of Commerce (AACC) in collaboration with the Indian Economic Trade Organisation (IETO), the forum was held at the College of Banking and Financial Studies (CBFS) in Muscat. It spotlighted Oman’s pivotal role as a strategic global hub for fostering partnerships and unlocking opportunities across key sectors such as renewable energy, technology, logistics, tourism and agriculture.
Distinguished dignitaries graced the event, including Nasima bint Yahya al Balushiyah, Director General of Invest Oman; Noralizan Abdul Momin, Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to Oman; Dr Asif Iqbal, Global President of AACC; Dr Santosh Geever, Chairman of AACC; and Dr Elias Nikolakopoulos, Honorary Consul of Greece to Oman. Together, they championed a vision of economic, diplomatic and cultural collaboration, placing Oman at the centre of regional and global connectivity.
Nasima al Balushi highlighted Oman’s unique geographical location and its longstanding ties with Asia and the Arab world, emphasising the nation’s growing significance in global commerce.
“Oman is not just a destination for business but a gateway for global trade,” she said. “Through platforms like this forum, we aim to showcase Oman’s investment-friendly policies and position our nation as a critical link in the global economic chain.”
The forum underscored the synergy between Asia’s dynamic economies and the Arab world’s strategic resources, offering untapped potential for inclusive growth. Ambassador Noralizan Abdul Momin of Brunei Darussalam remarked, “By aligning our shared interests, we can drive inclusive growth that uplifts all stakeholders and contributes to global economic stability.”
Expanding the conversation beyond Asia and the Arab world, the event also fostered connections with Europe, particularly Greece. Dr Nikolakopoulos emphasised Oman’s role in bridging East and West, stating, “This event has reaffirmed Oman’s role in bringing together diverse economies and fostering partnerships that go beyond borders. The relationships established here today will strengthen economic and cultural ties that span continents.”
Dr Iqbal, Global President of AACC and IETO, expressed his commitment to Oman’s global trade leadership. “The Asian Arab Business Forum is just the beginning of a journey towards a more interconnected world,” he said, announcing a series of upcoming initiatives to maintain momentum in fostering collaboration.
The forum marked a transformative milestone for Oman, paving the way for partnerships that foster sustainable growth, knowledge exchange and mutual prosperity. With the AACC’s commitment to promoting trade, investment and cultural ties across 32 countries, Oman is poised to solidify its position as a global centre for commerce, diplomacy and cultural exchange.
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