MUSCAT : The visit marks the first official trip by His Majesty to Belarus and is set to be a new milestone in strengthening ties between the two friendly nations.

Diplomatic relations between Oman and Belarus, established in July 1992, have steadily deepened over the decades. The visit comes less than a year after President Lukashenko’s official trip to Oman in December 2024, during which both sides underscored the importance of economic cooperation. Officials now describe His Majesty’s visit as a “qualitative shift” in bilateral ties, with prospects for expanded cooperation across political, economic, and cultural domains.

His Excellency Ambassador Hamoud bin Salem Al Towaih, Oman’s non-resident Ambassador to Belarus, emphasized that the visit “represents a distinguished historical event” and will pave the way for stronger partnerships that align with both countries’ national strategies.

Trade between the two nations has shown diversity and promise. Omani imports from Belarus include metals, machinery, and precision instruments in medical, optical, and industrial sectors, while exports from Oman have highlighted agricultural and plant products, reflecting competitiveness in global markets.

Agreements in recent years have included cooperation on competition protection, consumer rights, stock market information exchange, air transport, and avoidance of double taxation. Visa exemptions for diplomatic and official passports have also smoothed high-level exchanges.

The Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) confirmed that numerous opportunities exist in pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, agriculture, renewable energy, education, and logistics, all in line with Oman Vision 2040. “This visit embodies the keenness of Oman’s leadership to expand the horizons of international cooperation,” said OCCI Chairman His Excellency Faisal bin Abdullah Al Rawas.

Belarus, known for its industrial and IT strengths, sees Oman as a gateway to GCC and Asian markets. Technology cooperation, particularly in artificial intelligence, supercomputing, and digital services, has emerged as a key focus. Officials and business leaders believe joint ventures in AI, fintech, healthcare, and smart agriculture could position Oman as a regional hub for digital transformation.

Cultural and educational collaboration has also flourished. The National Museum of Oman and Belarusian museums maintain ongoing projects, while Minsk State University hosts the “Center for Arabic Language Culture,” established through agreements with Oman.

Tourism, agriculture, and food security are additional areas of shared interest. Officials highlighted plans to explore medical tourism, dairy and infant formula production, and agricultural projects that could enhance sustainability in both countries. With Belarus looking to Oman as a strategic re-export hub, both sides see potential for long-term investment and joint ventures.

Leaders and business figures from both nations agree that the state visit is set to accelerate cooperation.

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