Oman, France affirm commitment to enhance cooperation in various fields

Paris: The Sultanate of Oman and the French Republic began the first round of strategic dialogue in Paris today.

The Omani side was headed by Sheikh Khalifa bin Ali Al Harthy, Undersecretary of the Foreign Ministry for Political Affairs, while the French side was headed by Martins Briens, Secretary-General of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.

The session laid emphasis on the depth of the two countries’ strategic partnership in various fields and explored prospects for expanding cooperation in the fields of economy, investment, energy, security, culture, education and training.

The two sides also exchanged views about regional and international issues, notably the repercussions of the current crisis in the Gulf region. They underscored the significance of dialogue and diplomacy as the best way to overcome the challenges and reach sustainable solutions. They urged the concerned parties to resume negotiations.

On the sidelines of the session, the Government of the Sultanate of Oman and the Government of the French Republic signed an agreement on the issuance of work permits for spouses of official employees. The agreement was inked by Sheikh Khalifa Al Harthy and Martins Briens.

The session of strategic dialogue was attended Munthir Mahfoudh Al Manthiri, Head of the Europe Department at the Foreign Ministry, Ahmed Mohammed Al Araimi, Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to the French Republic, Nabil Hajlaoui, Ambassador of the French Republic to the Sultanate of Oman, and a number of officials from both sides.