The Sultanate of Oman has reaffirmed its approach to finding peaceful and consensual solutions to disputes, based on values that help achieve security and stability for all and so advance development and prosperity.

Delivering Oman’s statement to the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi said that dialogue is the true value capable of resolving issues and crises.

Describing dialogue as “the optimal means of overcoming differences, building trust and understanding,” he said: “We would like to affirm here that the Sultanate of Oman will continue its steadfast approach to finding peaceful and consensual solutions to disputes, advancing economic development projects and prosperity for our peoples,” he added.

Sayyid Badr said that refraining from the use of force and interference in the internal affairs of states, and being guided instead by the UN Charter and international law, can provide a sound framework for international relations that builds trust and constructive cooperation among states.

“Our region witnessed, at the beginning of this year, a war that could have been avoided. Subsequent events have shown that the escalation has extended to threaten the security of the countries of the region, and paralyse navigation and trade through the vital Strait of Hormuz,” he added.

This has undermined energy security, price stability, and confidence in the current international order, he noted.

The Minister said that Oman remains committed to continuing its efforts to safeguard navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, in accordance with the principles of international law and the Law of the Sea. Oman calls on all parties to cooperate in these efforts, he added.

“My country also renews its solidarity with all its neighbouring countries, including the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council, in the legitimate measures they take to maintain their security, and protect their sovereignty and safeguard their territorial integrity,” he continued.

He said Oman calls upon all concerned parties to settle their outstanding disputes, through pursuing a policy of self-restraint and engaging in dialogue, to reach consensual political solutions and sustainable understandings for the benefit of all.

The Minister renewed Oman’s support for finding a political solution to the crisis in Yemen, that preserves its unity and territorial integrity while meeting the aspirations of all components of the Yemeni people to achieve development, and prosperity.

The Minister restated Oman’s firm rejection of ongoing Israeli attacks, which have affected numerous Arab states, and its condemnation of the crimes of the Israeli occupation and its increasing violations against the Palestinian people. These have compounded their suffering in their pursuit of obtaining their legitimate rights, he added.

The Minister also spoke of Oman’s efforts to counter hate speech, genocide, and incitement, through the Muscat Plan, announcing that  Oman will host a special event next November to mark the International Day for Tolerance.

The Minister went on to speak of Oman’s commitment to sustainable development within the framework of Oman Vision 2040 and Oman’s continuing work to empower women’s active participation in the development process and decision-making.

He also spoke of Oman’s ongoing efforts to implement its national strategy to transit towards a low-carbon economy.

To read the full text of Oman’s statement to the UN General Assembly click here.