MUSCAT : Oman remains firmly opposed to further escalation or conflict in the region and believes lasting security in the Strait of Hormuz can only be achieved through sustainable regional peace, Foreign Minister His Excellency Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi said on Thursday.

Speaking at a joint press conference in Muscat with Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, Sayyid Badr reaffirmed Oman’s commitment to maritime security and international law as tensions surrounding the strategically important waterway remain high.

“The Sultanate of Oman remains steadfast in its commitment to maritime security and international law, and in rejecting further escalation or conflict,” Sayyid Badr said.

He said achieving sustainable security in the Strait of Hormuz required “establishing lasting peace in the region through restraint, diplomacy, and continued engagement to address the underlying causes of instability, including exclusionary policies and non-compliance with international law.”

Oman and Japan stressed during the talks the importance of reaching a political solution to reduce regional tensions and intensifying international efforts to guarantee freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law.

The two countries also underlined the importance of ensuring the uninterrupted movement of maritime traffic and energy supplies through the waterway, one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes.

Sayyid Badr said Oman would continue working with Japan and other international partners to support dialogue, justice and peaceful solutions, arguing that diplomacy and partnerships built on trust were increasingly important amid regional and global uncertainty.

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