BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN : His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik called for Oman and Brunei to expand trade and investment cooperation, saying their economic relationship had yet to reflect the strength of their partnership.

Speaking during expanded official talks with Brunei’s His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah at Istana Nurul Iman palace, His Majesty Sultan Haitham identified oil and gas, renewable energy, food security, maritime transport and logistics as promising areas for closer cooperation.

The talks, attended by members of Brunei’s royal family and the official Omani delegation, examined bilateral relations and ways to develop them in the interests of both countries.

His Majesty Sultan Haitham said Oman viewed Brunei as a strategic gateway to broader Asian markets, while Brunei could benefit from Oman’s position connecting the Gulf, the Middle East and Africa.

“Although the current volume of trade does not yet reflect the strength of our partnership, we are confident that we can raise it to higher levels,” he said.

He reaffirmed Oman’s commitment to increasing non-oil revenues and encouraged public and private sector institutions in both countries to identify commercial and investment opportunities that could support economic diversification.

His Majesty Sultan Haitham pointed to Oman Brunei Investment Company as an example of the countries’ growing economic relationship, expressing hope that it would explore new investments across a range of sectors.

He also acknowledged the efforts of Brunei’s leadership and government to strengthen the economic partnership.

“We are committed to continuing to strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation, and we reaffirm our determination to begin a new and bright chapter in the history of relations between the Sultanate of Oman and Brunei Darussalam,” he said.

His Majesty Sultan Haitham said ministers accompanying him on the visit were seeking additional areas of cooperation within their respective portfolios.

Beyond energy and logistics, he highlighted opportunities in innovation, technology, education and entrepreneurship. Stronger links between academic institutions and closer research cooperation could help equip younger generations to advance diversification and build resilient economies, he said.

On international affairs, His Majesty Sultan Haitham said the two countries shared a commitment to addressing urgent global challenges and promoting peace and stability.

Brunei’s support for dialogue and multilateral cooperation aligned with Oman’s diplomatic approach, he said, adding that the countries could work closely on humanitarian challenges, climate change and strengthening international law.

He expressed hope that the meeting would produce practical measures to deepen economic ties and open further opportunities for partnership.

His Majesty Sultan Haitham also thanked His Majesty Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah for the welcome and hospitality extended to him and the accompanying delegation, saying his return to Brunei reflected the deep and enduring ties between the two countries.

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