The EU opens its own delegation in Oman. Kallas: “We are expanding our diplomatic network where it matters most”

Brussels – The European Union is to establish a diplomatic delegation in Oman. The Vice-President of the European Commission and High Representative for the EU’s Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, and the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Sultanate of Oman, Sayyid Badr Albusaidi, signed today, via video conference, the agreement establishing the delegation in Muscat. 

“Oman is a highly valued partner for the EU” and “lies at the heart of Middle Eastern maritime trade,” with a “strategic position at the crossroads of the Persian Gulf, the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea, making it an indispensable player for regional stability,” Kallas noted. For these reasons, the opening of a delegation represents “a milestone” in relations between the two sides, as well as “a clear commitment” by the EU towards Oman and the Gulf region to “a stronger security partnership with the region.” The former Estonian prime minister, now at the helm of EU diplomacy, pointed out that the EU “has a network of 145 delegations around the world.” A network that represents “one of our greatest strategic assets,” she added. Therefore, “today we are expanding our diplomatic presence where it matters most,” namely a region affected by “Iran’s unacceptable attacks against its neighbours and against shipping in the Strait of Hormuz,” which have also impacted Oman’s territory and coastline to which Kallas expressed her solidarity. “The conflict between the United States and Iran is escalating once again, and the death toll is rising. At present, the prospects for a diplomatic solution between the two sides are slim,” Kallas emphasised. 

“Last week, United Nations representatives in the Gulf discussed how we can work together to uphold freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea, two waterways that cannot be considered in isolation,” Kallas noted. Therefore, “European security and that of the Gulf are closely linked, and that is precisely why today’s signing is important,” she explained. The Vice-President announced that “an ambassador to Oman will be appointed as soon as possible to establish a full diplomatic presence” in the capital and that, together, the EU and Oman will step up “political dialogue and expand cooperation.” Furthermore, “we look forward to launching negotiations on the strategic partnership agreement shortly and to participating in the second  EU-Gulf Cooperation Council Summit by the end of the year,” she concluded. 

Albusaidi emphasised that cooperation between the two sides “is based on a long history of pragmatism, shared objectives, and a mutual commitment to peace, security, and prosperity” and that the EU mission “will undoubtedly help to consolidate these foundations and create a concrete space dedicated to joint projects, initiatives, multilateral dialogues, and cultural exchanges.” This will also facilitate “strategic coordination on a range of interests and issues,” he explained. According to the minister, “closer cooperation would bring great benefits to governments, businesses, and citizens in both the EU and Oman, improving conflict resolution, strengthening supply chains and promoting harmony in global affairs.” Today’s agreement “will bring further mutual benefits for many years and generations to come,” he added, stating that he looks forward to “welcoming you here in Oman.”