NEW YORK: Oman reaffirmed its commitment to regional peace and global cooperation as it took part in the Gulf-US Ministerial Meeting and G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, both held in New York during the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly. His Excellency Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Al Busaidi, Minister of Foreign Affairs, led the Omani delegation, engaging in crucial discussions on pressing international issues.

At the Gulf-US Ministerial Meeting, ministers from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and the United States exchanged views on regional conflicts, with a strong focus on the Palestinian issue. Oman, alongside its counterparts, called for an immediate halt to the war in Gaza and Lebanon, emphasizing the need for de-escalation and a renewed push for the two-state solution based on the Arab Peace Initiative. The discussions also touched on broader security, political, and economic cooperation between the Gulf and the United States.

In his participation at the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, His Excellency praised Brazil’s initiative to open the platform to all UN members, highlighting the importance of inclusivity, especially for the Global South. He raised critical concerns about hunger, climate disasters, and the need for financing development, stressing the necessity of international cooperation to tackle these challenges. He urged for the reform of global institutions to better reflect the needs of the interconnected world.

The Omani Foreign Minister underscored the failures of existing global bodies in resolving conflicts and preventing climate crises, particularly citing the ongoing Palestinian conflict as a poignant example of institutional shortcomings. He further expressed Oman’s support for strengthening the United Nations General Assembly’s role in fostering more equitable global governance.

On the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, Sayyid Badr held a series of bilateral meetings, strengthening ties with several nations. Notably, he met with Spain’s Foreign Minister, José Manuel Albares, reaffirming their mutual support for the Palestinian cause and discussing new agreements aimed at enhancing cooperation across various sectors.

His Excellency also engaged with Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna to explore opportunities for collaboration in technology and digital solutions. At the same time, discussions with Mauritania and Zanzibar focused on strengthening economic, trade, and cultural partnerships.