MUSCAT: Oman and China have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their strategic partnership and expanding bilateral cooperation across economic, technological, energy, financial and security sectors, according to a joint statement issued on the occasion of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik's state visit to the People's Republic of China.
The joint statement emphasised the importance of elevating bilateral relations to broader and deeper levels, highlighting the role of high-level diplomacy in guiding cooperation between the two countries.
Both sides acknowledged the depth of historical ties between Oman and China, which extend back more than 1,200 years, and expressed their determination to build on this longstanding relationship.
The statement reaffirmed the commitment to the One-China principle, with Oman reiterating its support for United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758. China also praised Oman's role in promoting dialogue, resolving differences and supporting peace and stability in the region.
On economic cooperation, both countries agreed to strengthen the alignment of China's Belt and Road Initiative with Oman Vision 2040, while expanding development partnerships and investment opportunities.
The two sides agreed to deepen cooperation in the oil and gas sectors, renewable energy and energy storage, while exploring wider opportunities in artificial intelligence, advanced technologies, digital infrastructure and space.
The joint statement also welcomed Oman's participation as a founding member of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation, reflecting the growing importance of emerging technologies in bilateral relations.
In the financial sector, both countries highlighted cooperation through a local currency swap agreement and the development of digital payment systems and digital currencies.
The statement further outlined plans to expand collaboration in culture, education, tourism, civil aviation and people-to-people exchanges, aimed at strengthening mutual understanding and connectivity.
Oman and China also agreed to enhance military, security and judicial cooperation, including coordination to address common security challenges.
At the regional level, both sides emphasised the importance of advancing negotiations towards the conclusion of a free trade agreement between China and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
The joint statement reflects the two countries' shared ambition to strengthen their longstanding partnership and establish new avenues of cooperation in strategic sectors that support their long-term development priorities.
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