In the midst of various events and international politics that the world is witnessing in the region, we have seen that there is a high regard for the neutral foreign policy adopted by the Sultanate. Oman has announced from the outset its commitment of not interfering in the internal affairs of others. Oman’s political attitudes and its vision in this regard are far-reaching. Through its experience in the field of international relations during the past four decades, the government has been able to adopt very good political postures and economic relations with the entire world, apart from taking the right decisions that have strengthened its relationship with its neighbours.
Oman is a peace loving country and builds its political and economic relations on the basis of the principles upon which its foreign policy is set up. It takes into consideration mutual interests with the entire world, especially the Gulf region, Iraq, Iran and Yemen. This is what puts the Omani diplomacy in the right direction. If there is any anger or irritation it is taken care of in a tolerant and silent way, letting time do the rest. This is one of the foundations based on which the government in dealing with the rest of the world, and this is how it has managed to gain respect the world over. The unwavering work done by the Omani diplomacy in putting forward its views and visions is based on the belief that the spectre of war must be avoided by any means in the region. We have seen the results of wars and the destruction and suffering because of it.
The Omani foreign policy have had a positive effect in reducing the conflicts in the region, which is considered one of the important mainstays of the international economy and enjoys the respect of the political and economic decision makers around the world. Thus, Oman always aims at keeping this region away from the ravages of war and its aftermath of disasters and destruction. It aspires to take the region on the path of positive development, welcoming large numbers of foreign labour to help and participate in the region and its development and, of course, to reap the fruits made available by the revenues reaped from oil and gas, utilising them for establishing development projects that serve its people and the goals of humanity. Thus people from all over the world people are able to enjoy these benefits of prosperity, stability and development. All of this has been achieved through an easy formula based on respect of the interests of others and the others respecting our interests. This would no doubt, bolster the chances of peace, security and social justice in the world.
Of course, the commitment and compliance with these principles by all would establish closer co-operation and more constant communication among nations of different political, economic, intellectual, cultural and ideological systems.
This would also diminish the chances of international crisis, nationalistic, religious and sectarian differences and conflicts. Such peaceful and tolerant policies would lead to the just settlement of many problems that are emerging all around the globe.
The government therefore, should continue its flexible foreign policy with full confidence and diligence in order to draw more international investment which can contribute in creating more employment opportunities for its nationals and for expatriates who have contributed and are still contributing in invigorating and energising the capacities of this country, apart from enhancing its resources during the last 42 years.