Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman and Japan emphasised the importance of reaching a final agreement and a political solution that leads to the de-escalation of tensions in the region. They also stressed the need to intensify international efforts to ensure the freedom of maritime navigation in the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law, and to guarantee the seamless flow of maritime traffic and energy supplies.
This came during a joint press conference in Muscat on Thursday by Sayyid Badr bin Hamad al Busaidi, Foreign Minister, and Motegi Toshimitsu, Japan's Minister for Foreign Affairs.
Sayyid Badr said that Omani-Japanese relations are built on mutual respect, trust and a shared commitment to peace and stability. He noted that next year marks the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, representing an opportunity to set an even more ambitious course for the future of the partnership between Oman and Japan.
He stated that economic ties are an important pillar of this partnership, welcoming the growing interest and engagement of Japanese companies in Oman, particularly in the sectors of energy, renewables and low-carbon technologies, logistics and infrastructure.
Sayyid Badr expressed his optimism that going forward, Omani-Japanese cooperation will be further enhanced in a number of sectors, including space, green manufacturing, and advanced technology.
He pointed out that Oman looks forward to a positive outcome regarding the free trade agreement discussions between Japan and GCC countries, explaining that reaching an agreement would enable the boosting of bilateral trade, investment and supply chain security for mutual benefit.
He also noted the significant increase in tourism and cultural exchange between Oman and Japan in recent years, through events led by the embassies of both countries, as well as participation in the remarkable 2025 Expo in Osaka.
The Foreign Minister explained that he exchanged views with the Japanese Foreign Minister regarding regional developments, particularly concerning the Strait of Hormuz. He affirmed that safe passage through the Strait is inseparable from the security and prosperity of the wider region, as it is one of the most important shipping routes in the world, adding that people and economies far beyond the region depend on the energy and commodities that travel through it.
He affirmed that the Oman is unwavering in its commitment to maritime security, international law, and the prevention of further escalation or conflict. He stressed that guaranteeing sustainable security in the Strait of Hormuz requires lasting peace in the region through restraint, diplomacy, and sustained engagement to address the underlying causes of instability, including policies of exclusion and non-adherence to international law.
The Foreign Minister reiterated Oman's determination to continue working with Japan and all international partners in support of dialogue, justice and peaceful solutions. He pointed out that at a time of considerable uncertainty in the region and the world, partnerships grounded in trust, pragmatism, and diplomacy are more important than ever.
He also expressed his thanks to his Japanese counterpart for the constructive discussions that took place today, confirming his anticipation to continue the close cooperation between the two countries as they begin an even stronger chapter in Omani-Japanese relations.
On his part, Motegi Toshimitsu, Japan's Minister for Foreign Affairs, expressed his appreciation for the longstanding support the Sultanate of Oman provides in serving international peace and security, noting the agreement to continue deepening exchanges and cooperation in this field.
He stated that Japan is currently developing a comprehensive cooperation plan to strengthen the economic and energy resilience in light of the current situation in the Middle East. He added that Oman is actively pursuing water desalination projects and environmentally friendly steel production, affirming that his country hopes to play an active role in these areas.
He added that the situation surrounding Iran is reaching a highly critical stage, expressing his anticipation for candid discussions aimed at de-escalating the situation as soon as possible, and confirming close coordination with the Sultanate of Oman toward ensuring free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el Mandeb Strait.
He affirmed that Japan and the Sultanate of Oman, as Comprehensive Partners, have been strengthening cooperation in a wide range of areas in recent years, going beyond cooperation in the energy sector.
He noted that his meeting with Oman’s Foreign Minister covered a number of areas, including energy, defence, education, and tourism, and witnessed very constructive discussions that reaffirmed the commitment of both countries to further strengthening bilateral cooperation.
Toshimitsu expressed his country's gratitude to the Sultanate of Oman for its long-standing and stable supply of crude oil and LNG. He affirmed the two countries' intention to further promote cooperation in clean energy, including the development of hydrogen and ammonia. — ONA
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