MUSCAT: The UK and Oman have signed a new Joint Defence Agreement (JDA), according to a statement from UK’s Ministry of Defence. 

UK’s Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson visited Oman to sign the agreement.

The JDA follows the culmination of Exercise Saif Sareea 3, which was held in Oman during October and November 2018. 

It was the largest exercise by the UK’s military since Saif Sareea 2, 17 years previously, with 5,500 troops travelling to Oman to display their land, air and sea capabilities. 

It is anticipated that the JDA will provide a launch pad to deepen defence co-operation between Oman and UK.

The UK and Oman have a long-standing and historic relationship, dating back more than 200 years. 

His Excellency Sayyid Bader bin Saud bin Harib Al Busaidi, the Omani Minister Responsible for Defence Affairs said that this agreement culminates the efforts of both countries’ leaderships to enhance the existing bilateral cooperation and the strategic partnership between them. 

“It is a milestone in the history of both nations. The signing of this agreement today reaffirms the importance of optimizing the joint military efforts to ensure the security and stability of both friendly countries and pave the way for more cooperation in the field of defence and joint exercises in pursuance of the agreement objectives,” Al Busaidi.

Meanwhile, Williamson said that it is a pleasure to sign the agreement, bringing UK and Oman closer.

“This is an historic landmark moment between our two nations and is a significant reinforcement of our mutual security.” he added.