Oman and Eritrea strengthen bilateral ties
By OUR CORRESPONDENT
Asmara, Eritrea – Foreign Minister, H E Sayyid Badr Hamad al Busaidi, met with his Eritrean counterpart, Osman Saleh, in Asmara on Monday to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation.
The talks focused on enhancing economic and commercial ties between the two nations, particularly in key sectors such as mining, marine resources, transport and logistics, information technology, and banking. Both sides emphasised the need to stimulate investment and trade exchanges to benefit their respective economies.
The ministers also exchanged views on regional and international developments of mutual interest, reaffirming their commitment to ongoing coordination and consultation. They stressed the importance of fostering security, stability, and comprehensive development in the region.
During the visit, Sayyid Badr conveyed a message from His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki, reaffirming the strong ties between Oman and Eritrea and underscoring the commitment to further developing bilateral cooperation and partnerships.
The meeting was attended by Saleh bin Mohammed al Saqri, Head of the African Department at the Omani Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with senior officials from both countries.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Muscat Daily
2 hours ago
- Muscat Daily
H M congratulates Saudi King on success of haj
Muscat – His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik on Sunday sent a cable of congratulations to the Custodian of the two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz al Saud of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and Prince Mohammed bin Salman al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, on the success of haj season. In the cable, His Majesty the Sultan lauded the great efforts exerted by the Saudi government every year in serving the pilgrims and providing all necessary conditions and services for the smooth, safe and easy performance of the haj pilgrimage. His Majesty prayed to the Almighty Allah to grant Saudi Arabia permanent success in organising the performance of this sacred duty in the most perfect manner. Exchange of greetings His Majesty the Sultan exchanged Eid al Adha greetings over a phone call on Sunday with President Mahmoud Abbas of the State of Palestine, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation, and Shehbaz Sharif, Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. His Majesty the Sultan expressed his sincere sentiments and best wishes of good health and happiness to Abbas and Sharif. He also wished the people of both the countries further progress and prosperity. In reciprocation, the Palestinian President expressed his heartfelt sentiments and best wishes of good health and happiness to His Majesty the Sultan. He prayed to Allah the Almighty for the return of this occasion on His Majesty at a time he has achieved more progress and prosperity for the Omani people. The Prime Minister of Pakistan too expressed his heartfelt sentiments and best wishes of good health and happiness to His Majesty, praying to Allah the Almighty for the return of this occasion on His Majesty for many years to come.
Observer
3 hours ago
- Observer
Women in Oman import handbags worth RO 9.5m in 2024
Muscat: Women in Oman imported handbags worth RO 9.5 million in 2024, marking a 37 per cent rise compared to the same period in 2023. The National Center for Statistics and Information said Oman has witnessed a notable diversification in the types of imported handbags ranging from materials to designs to international brands thus catering to the different ages and tastes. Part of this increase is attributed to the growing online stores that have become key players in selling women's goods. These platforms have helped provide diverse options, competitive prices and convenient shipping across Oman. Maryam al Muqbali, owner of one of the online stores, said that the demand for online handbag purchases has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, especially during festivals. "We've noticed that women are increasingly relying on online shopping because it offers attractive deals and prices, as well as multiple payment options and fast delivery services, all of which have significantly boosted sales. We always strive to import high-quality handbags that keep up with the latest fashion trends to meet the needs of women of all ages." Khadija al Balushi, one of the consumers, said, "I love buying handbags, whether from stores or online. In Oman, there's a wide variety of handbag stores, both in large shopping centres and small local markets, and each store offers different collections to suit all tastes. I often look for handbags that suit my daily needs in terms of quality and durability. Sometimes, I resort to online stores if I want new designs or special offers. But at the same time, I love shopping in person because I can touch and see the product up close before buying, which is important to me to ensure the product is genuine, as some online accounts might sell counterfeit items." She said sometimes she hesitate before buying, "because I'm not sure about the product's quality, so I focus on reading reviews and others' experiences before making a purchase. Nevertheless, online shopping has made many things easier for us, especially when time is tight." She said she has both original and imitation handbags, noting that she prefers the originals. She explained that it is sometimes difficult to distinguish between original and fakes. She believes that the genuine product is worth the price. This increase comes within the context of the continuous growth of the Omani consumer market, especially during holidays, vacations and social occasions, which are periods that typically see increased demand for such products.
Observer
3 hours ago
- Observer
Nizwa: Bridging sustainable development and heritage
NIZWA: The Wilayat of Nizwa in the Governorate of Al Dakhiliyah stands as one of Oman's most prominent cultural and touristic destinations, renowned for its rich historical legacy and archaeological landmarks that chronicle significant chapters of the nation's past. The iconic Nizwa Fort dominates the historical landscape as a masterpiece of traditional Omani architecture. Adjacent to the fort, the vibrant Nizwa Souq showcases exceptional local craftsmanship, from intricately forged daggers and handcrafted silverware to traditional markets selling livestock, fresh produce and artisanal goods. Falaj Daris, recognised on Unesco's World Heritage list as one of Oman's largest aflaj irrigation systems, represents another jewel in Nizwa's heritage crown. This ancient water network sustains extensive agricultural lands while demonstrating centuries-old Omani ingenuity in sustainable water management. The recent development of a public garden within the falaj has further enhanced its ecological and touristic value. Nizwa's strategic geographical location, combined with its diverse topography of wadis, mountains and verdant oases, has established it as a prime destination for cultural and eco-tourism. These natural assets, along with progressive development initiatives, have positioned the Wilayat of Nizwa as an attractive investment hub for tourism and infrastructure projects. Nizwa has achieved remarkable progress in sustainable development through strategic initiatives. These initiatives have further enhanced urban infrastructure and quality of life. Significant development projects currently under way include Al Dakhiliyah Square launched earlier this year, an Integrated Public Transport Station, and restoration works in Harat Al Aqr. The Public Garden Project has reached 40 per cent completion, collectively aiming to elevate Nizwa's status as Oman's premier cultural-tourism destination while creating new economic opportunities. Harat Al Aqr has transformed into a flagship example of youth empowerment, hosting 78 entrepreneurial ventures that have generated over 300 jobs for young Omanis. The Wilayat of Nizwa is an attractive investment hub for tourism and infrastructure projects Shaikh Saleh bin Dhiyab al Rubaiee, Wali of Nizwa, said that developmental projects are strategically designed to strengthen local economies while preserving cultural heritage. He highlighted how historical neighbourhood restoration forms a cornerstone of Nizwa's economic strategy, serving the dual purpose of safeguarding cultural identity through architectural conservation while creating employment via tourism and SME development. Nizwa Industrial City, under the Public Establishment for Industrial Estates (Madayn), represents another facet of Nizwa's growth with 186 operational projects, attracting RO 504 million in cumulative investments and generating 6,100 jobs with a 45-per cent Omanisation rate. Ishaq bin Ibrahim al Kharousi, acting Director-General, revealed Madayn's upcoming RO 1.2 million Entrepreneurial Complex and ongoing studies for an integrated residential zone within the industrial city. Ahlam bint Hamad al Qasabiyah, Director of the Heritage and Tourism Department in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate, outlined the ministry's comprehensive SME support programmes including streamlined licensing procedures, specialised training initiatives and incentive packages for heritage hospitality ventures. She noted how the conversion of historical homes into heritage inns perfectly illustrates the purple economy approach, citing 600,000 visitors to Harat Al Aqr in the first quarter of 2023 as evidence of this model's success in merging cultural preservation with economic viability. The ministry continues to prioritise fortress restorations and historical documentation to enhance Oman's sustainable tourism offerings while safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. This comprehensive development approach positions Nizwa as a model for balanced sustainable growth, creating new opportunities while maintaining the unique identity. — ONA
