17-02-2025
Oman an important player in the Indian Ocean region: Chinese special envoy
Oman, a nation with a strong maritime tradition, has played a significant role in promoting exchanges and mutual learning among Asian countries, according to Chinese special envoy, Zhai Jun.
Jun highlighted the historical significance of Omani navigator Abu Obaid, who set sail from Suhar over 1200 years ago and navigated along the Indian Ocean coast, reaching China's Guangzhou.
'This incident etched a remarkable chapter in history and it was the beginning of the brotherly relations between the two countries. The 8th Indian Ocean Conference held in Oman is of great significance, and I believe with the efforts of Oman and support of participating countries, it will surely witness a great success,' he told the media.
The Indian Ocean serves as a hub for global economic exchanges and trade, with the largest number of developing countries and significant development potential. China is committed to deepening development cooperation with the region, building a maritime community with shared interests, and promoting high-quality, sustainable development.
Jun expressed gratitude to the Omani government for their warm reception and thoughtful arrangements. He highlighted the longstanding friendship between Oman and China, emphasising the need to strengthen political trust, practical cooperation and people-to-people exchanges to advance the China-Oman strategic partnership.
The close ties between countries in the Indian Ocean region, in terms of people-to-people exchanges, trade and culture, were also praised. Jun noted the historical friendship between Oman and China, dating back to the voyages of Zheng He, which enhanced cultural exchanges between the two countries.
