MUSCAT : These high-level discussions took place on the sidelines of the 8th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC), hosted by the Sultanate of Oman, underscoring the nation’s commitment to regional and international cooperation.

The meetings were attended by prominent figures, including His Excellency Dr. S. Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs of the Republic of India, His Excellency Osman Saleh Mohammed, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Eritrea, His Excellency Jassim bin Mohammed Al-Budaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, His Excellency Hassan Ali Joho, Minister of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs of the Republic of Kenya, His Excellency Ambassador Zhai Jun, Special Envoy of the Chinese Government to the Middle East, His Excellency Dr. Erywan Yusuf, Second Minister of Foreign Affairs of Brunei Darussalam, His Excellency Dhananjay Ramphol, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and National Trade of the Republic of Mauritius, and His Excellency Youssef Mohamed Ali, Director of the Office of the President of the Union of the Comoros in charge of the Ministry of Defense.

The meetings addressed ways to enhance bilateral relations and cooperation in various fields, including the blue economy, trade, energy, tourism, and education, in addition to sustainable development and youth empowerment. Investment opportunities and strengthening economic partnerships were also discussed, with emphasis on the importance of developing infrastructure and facilitating cooperation between the public and private sectors.

In addition to bilateral relations, the meetings addressed regional and international challenges facing the Indian Ocean region, such as maritime security, climate change, and efforts to enhance regional stability. Both sides expressed a shared commitment to dialogue and diplomacy as essential tools to overcome challenges and build stronger partnerships.

His Excellency Albusaidi reiterated the Sultanate of Oman’s commitment to advancing cooperation with countries and regional and international partners. He emphasized that Oman’s efforts are focused on contributing to sustainable development, enhancing regional stability, and opening new avenues for cooperation that align with the common interests of all parties involved.

For all the latest news from Oman and GCC, follow us on Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn, like us on Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube page, which is updated daily.