Peace-making role of Oman...

The initial talks between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran were wrapped up on the soil of the Sultanate of Oman. Although the announcement of the talks was a surprise as it represented a breakthrough and sudden advance in the ongoing stalemate in the relations between the US and Iran, what is not surprising is that Oman was once been again as the land for these talks.

While some countries tend to fuel hostile conflicts and disputes between states and nations, other countries take the path to peace. Just as healthy plants need rich soil to grow vigorously, peace-making requires ethical behaviours and high morals which without doubt Oman has.

Oman is a rich soil for peace to thrive. As a country which is not riddled with corruption, social injustice, or neglect, virtuous values that consider and rate peace highly are what our world desperately needs nowadays.

Under the wise leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, resolving disputes between countries and advocating peace take root deeply in the Omani political apparatus. Oman has such a nurturing environment that supports and promotes the end of hostilities between those who have been at war or in a state of enmity. As a result, countless hostilities have been brought to an end by Oman.

The Sultanate of Oman has never shunned its face in pursuit of peace nor has it been shy of its efforts to call for peace, maintaining consistency and integrity in its efforts as a moral self-binding obligation towards peace.

It must be highlighted that commitment to peace is not an overnight process; it requires sincerity that is marked by both genuineness and good intentions which undoubtedly Oman excels in.

For that reason, Oman has great men, such as Sayyid Badr bin Hamad al Busaidy, Foreign Minister, who are well known for their fairness and straightforwardness, firm adherence to Omani values, and moral strength to venture, persevere and withstand difficult situations.

When Oman acts, its actions flow, according to the usual course of behaviour, from an honest character of the country and its great men, as they align with Oman’s true beliefs and feelings. This is due to the fact that Oman’s efforts have always been marked by sincerity and good intentions, creating a conducive environment.

Oman has long been seen as a reliable partner and mediator by many countries around the world. This essentially stems from both Oman’s self-respect and respect for others, gaining the trust of many countries while laying the groundwork for genuine mediation efforts and trustworthy respect.

As a moral compass, Oman’s attempts to reconcile differing viewpoints between adversaries are made without seeking any reward or praise, without media glare, and without expecting anything in return. Any action Oman takes is directed towards nothing but to achieve positive outcomes without hidden agendas. The actions are taken by Oman in a sincere manner for the good of others or for a greater cause, with no strings attached - no counterbalancing compensation expected.

It goes beyond doubt that Oman embraces high moral values to bring conflicting parties closer together, which reflects a deep sense of sincerity, humility, and selflessness in its actions. The Omani soil is rich with tradition, mutual respect, and a shared sense of purpose, acting not for recognition or material gain but out of its genuine conviction and moral duty.

The writer is the Dean of Al Zahra College for Women