MUSCAT : Held in the capital, the high-level roundtable gathered officials, trade experts, and global delegates to reaffirm the Arab region’s rising influence in the multilateral trading system. Participants commended Oman’s active presence and pivotal technical role in facilitating the accession of several countries to the WTO, showcasing its commitment to regional cooperation and economic diplomacy.
Dr. Saleh bin Saeed Masan, Undersecretary for Trade and Investment at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, emphasized that Oman’s journey over the past 25 years has not only aligned its laws and business frameworks with WTO standards but also positioned it as a technical pillar for aspiring member states.
Underscoring the global relevance of the forum, Sheikh Khalifa bin Ali Al Harthy, Undersecretary for Political Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, noted that WTO accession opens strategic investment avenues, with Oman leveraging its geographic advantage and open-market policy to promote transparency and competitiveness.
Read More
- Oman police detain 10 over street racing in Nizwa and Izki
- Oman’s Musandam seeks tourism relief, studies new port in Khasab
- Crude oil spill reported after tanker overturns in Oman’s Al Dhahirah
- Invest Oman secures RO 3.09 billion in projects as investment drive gathers pace
- Institutions with high energy use must appoint efficiency officers, Oman ministry says
Foreign Trade Advisor Pankaj Khimji highlighted the tangible benefits post-accession: over $30 billion in diversified investments across logistics, energy, food, and industrial sectors, bolstered by free trade agreements and investor-friendly zones.
Hilda Al Hinai, Secretary-General of the Arab-Swiss Chamber of Commerce, and other international representatives acknowledged Oman’s model role in the WTO, commending its commitment to economic diversification and adherence to global trade principles.
China’s Vice Minister of Commerce, Yan Dong, praised Oman’s hosting of the roundtable, calling it a milestone in driving WTO inclusivity and reform. He reiterated China’s support for multilateral trade and pledged increased collaboration with the WTO to assist developing nations.
WTO Deputy Director-General Xiangchen Zhang echoed these sentiments, celebrating Oman’s 25-year journey and its proactive efforts to boost economic integration. He revealed plans to deepen Arab trade studies and empower private sector participation ahead of the next ministerial conference in Cameroon.
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.
