Sultanate's emphasis on promoting its rich historical and cultural legacy is an integral part of its firm policy to build bridges of friendship with people of all countries. We know the value which the government places on enhancement of relations through continuous interaction with other communities and cultures. It is within this result-oriented policy that the nation’s famed Royal Cavalry will participate in a cultural pageant to mark the diamond jubilee celebrations of Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II which is being held in the United Kingdom this month. Equestrian events are hugely popular in the Sultanate; they are in keeping with traditions coming down from generations, and from a time when horses along with camels played a key role in transportation of people and goods. These animals were an integral part of the old way of life, but with the advent of modern transportation they are now used mostly for racing and other equestrian events.

The Royal Cavalry at the Royal Court Affairs has been prominent in this role and has earned regional and international accolades through their performances. The accomplished men and women riders will no doubt capture the hearts of audiences in the UK where more than 550 horses, 1,000 riders and music bands will display their prowess. The Sultanate’s riders will perform to music played by the Royal Cavalry and Royal Guard of Oman bands. While displaying their riding skills, the occasion also gives the Sultanate’s delegation the opportunity of interacting with participants and visitors from the United States, Australia, Britain and some European, Asian and African countries and creating awareness about Omani culture and traditions. Such interactions have been the hallmark of the Sultanate’s initiatives to develop and expand bilateral and trade relations with the rest of the world.

It is also a simple truth that people-to-people understanding can be greatly strengthened through cultural displays, exhibitions and sports gatherings. Events like ‘Omani Cultural Days,’ held in various countries in the past, were a huge success; they were an eye-opener for many visitors who were impressed by the cultural aspects of Omani life. As it turns out, the Sultanate’s policy of bridging cultures, apart from fostering bilateral and trade relations, has also been an active tourism driver. Engaging world communities through its art, cultural and sports programmes has become a winning strategy for the Sultanate. Visitors are always impressed by the peace that prevails in the land and the hospitality of the Omani people. The country is endowed with natural wonders which include rugged mountains, wadis, blue seas and varied flora and fauna. With such gifts of nature, many cultural traditions have come to the fore – these are represented in art forms and folklore. And, equestrian sport is one of them. Horse racing, dare-devil riding, tent-pegging, show-jumping and dressage competitions are popular events and Omani men and women riders are considerably skilled in them. These skills, we are sure, will be greatly appreciated as the Royal Cavalry riders and musicians and Royal Guard of Oman band perform in the celebrations to honour the British queen. A tried and trusted friendship-building exercise indeed!