The Sultanate of Oman participated in the third EU-GCC High Level Forum on Security and Cooperation, held in Brussels.

The Omani delegation was led by Ambassador Sheikh Ahmed Almaskari, Head of the Foreign Ministry’s Department for the GCC and region.

At the start of his remarks, he conveyed the greetings of Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi and his best wishes for the success of the Forum.

He then highlighted the importance of continuing EU-GCC dialogue and strengthening the strategic partnership between the two regions in support of shared security, stability and prosperity.

Ambassador Almaskari reaffirmed the solidarity of the Gulf Cooperation Council states in addressing current challenges and outlined Oman’s position on the importance of preserving regional security and stability.

He also reiterated Oman’s commitment to freedom of maritime navigation and the safety of international shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz, in accordance with international law and the Law of the Sea.

He further highlighted Oman’s continued close cooperation with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to strengthen maritime security and safety and to support regional and international stability.

The Forum discussed regional and international issues of mutual interest, as well as ways to strengthen cooperation and coordination between the GCC and the European Union across various fields, in support of security, stability and sustainable development.

The Forum was attended by Ambassador Rua Alzadjali, Head of Oman’s Mission to the Kingdom of Belgium and the European Union.