Oman’s New Sultan Haitham "Respects International Cooperation"... Emphasizes Role as Conflict Mediator

[Asia Economy Reporter Dongwoo Lee] Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, who ascended as the new ruler (Sultan) of the Gulf region's Islamic country Oman, announced on the 11th (local time) that he will continue Oman's peaceful diplomatic policy.

On the same day, Sultan Haitham stated in a speech broadcast on state TV that he will maintain friendly relations with all countries and pursue a diplomatic policy of non-interference in foreign internal affairs, according to major foreign media including AFP.

In his first public speech after his accession, Sultan Haitham said, "We will follow the path of the late Sultan," and "Our country's diplomatic policy is to live peacefully with other countries and peoples," adding, "We do not interfere in the internal affairs of foreign countries and respect national sovereignty and international cooperation." This passage is interpreted as a commitment to continue Oman's role as a mediator in conflicts.

Oman played a mediating role in the signing of the 2015 nuclear agreement (JCPOA - Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action) between the United States and Iran, and negotiations between Saudi Arabia and the Yemeni Houthi rebels have also taken place in Oman.

When Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Bahrain severed ties with Qatar in June 2017, Oman did not take sides with any party. It also maintains amicable relations with Iran, which is hostile to Saudi Arabia.

Sultan Haitham, who served as the president of the Oman Football Association and Minister of Heritage and Culture, ascended as the successor the day after the former Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said (79) passed away on the 10th.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.