The following is the text of remarks delivered by Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi at the second Oman–Cebu Investment Forum held in Muscat on February 9, 2026

“Your Excellency Maria Theresa Lazaro, distinguished guests and delegates, it is my profound pleasure to welcome you warmly to Muscat for the Second Oman–Cebu Forum.

“We are deeply honoured by the presence of our Filipino friends, a vivid testament to the deepening friendship between the Sultanate of Oman and the Republic of the Philippines.

“The inaugural Forum in Cebu last year transcended formal exchanges: it united visions, forged pathways for collaboration, and revealed vast potential in trade, investment, tourism, logistics, renewable energy, education, and cultural ties.

“Today marks continuity and renewed momentum. In a world of rapid change, enduring partnerships thrive on sustained dialogue, mutual trust, and a common horizon.

“This Forum stands as an important bridge; convening governments, businesses, and communities to transform aspirations into tangible opportunities and connections into enduring bonds.

“Looking ahead, we are called to innovate together: advancing economic diversification, sustainable development, and people-to-people links.

“Oman and the Philippines, with complementary strengths, can learn from one another and prosper side by side.

“At its heart, our cooperation is human: nurturing understanding between our peoples, celebrating shared heritage, and empowering future leaders and entrepreneurs to carry this partnership forward.

“We take pride in the thriving Filipino community in Oman, numbering nearly 50,000.

“We deeply value their invaluable contributions to our society and economy.

“We hope to attract more highly skilled professionals through sustained investments and joint projects in the various sectors that bring mutual benefits, such as logistics, transport and communication, cyber, AI and healthcare centers, smart urban developments and tourism, agriculture and fisheries, education and vocational training.

“Your Excellency, distinguished guests, this second gathering, affirms what vision, paired with resolve, can achieve.

“The momentum we have built is positive; it is our collective duty to sustain it, enrich it, and convert it into lasting progress for our nations and peoples.

“In closing, I would like to express our sincere appreciation to Her Excellency the Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines for her continued support in strengthening the partnership between our two friendly nations. I also extend special thanks to Mikaela and Carlo for their dedicated efforts in advancing cooperation and ensuring the success of this Forum since its inception in Cebu last year.

“Our gratitude goes as well to the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry for its vital role in bringing together our business communities, and to my team at the Ministry whose tireless work made this gathering possible.

“Finally, my heartfelt thanks to all of you present today—your participation and commitment are what truly make this Forum not only a success – but special.

“With optimism and confidence, we look to a future of mutual success.

“Salamat, Shukran and God bless you.”