King Charles III Hails Oman's Crucial Role in Securing Strait of Hormuz During Sultan's State Visit

At a state banquet held at Windsor Castle, King Charles III lauded Oman's "noble efforts" to maintain the openness of the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking partly in Arabic, the King expressed his recognition of "Oman’s enduring commitment as a trusted interlocutor to all parties" during a period of renewed conflict in the region. This commendation came at the conclusion of the first day of Sultan Haitham's state visit to Britain. The King specifically thanked Oman for its "noble efforts in trying to keep open one of the world's most important shipping routes," emphasizing its significant service to the global community, particularly to those most vulnerable.

King Charles further highlighted Oman's broader influence, stating that its role across the Gulf and its "constructive neutrality" hold importance far beyond Hormuz and deserve "utmost respect." He underscored the long-standing relationship between Oman and Britain, describing the Sultanate as "one of Britain’s oldest allies" and "closest friends." The King also expressed his delight in the collaboration between his son, Prince William, the Prince of Wales, and Sultan Haitham's son, Crown Prince Theyazin bin Haitham, as joint patrons of the Jewel of Arabia expedition. This expedition last year retraced the 1928 coastal route of British explorer Bertram Thomas across Oman.

"There can be fewer happier symbols of success than a living relationship being passed from one generation to the next," the King remarked. He also quoted poetry, demonstrating his engagement with Arabic language studies, and praised Oman’s "breathtaking landscape," which he has experienced during numerous visits.

The state banquet, attended by 160 guests, marked the culmination of the Sultan's initial day in the UK for his three-day state visit. The day commenced with a procession to Windsor Castle, where the Sultan spent time with the British Royal Family. Sultan Haitham presented King Charles with the Order of Al Said, an honour the King subsequently wore to the banquet.

Meanwhile, business leaders convened at the Guildhall in London to explore investment opportunities stemming from the UK-GCC trade agreement finalized earlier this year. Haitham Al Salmi, chief executive of Muscat Stock Exchange, informed The National that a primary objective of Sultan Haitham’s visit is to foster investment between the UK and Oman.

Omani and British officials are scheduled to sign several agreements on Wednesday, coinciding with Sultan Haitham's meeting with Prime Minister Andy Burnham. These agreements include participation in a $1 billion data centre project in Salalah. Mr. Burnham attended the previous night's banquet, his first as prime minister, and was seated alongside the Man Booker prize-winning author Jokha Alharthi and General Sultan bin Mohammed al Nu’amani, Minister of the Royal Office.

A Downing Street statement indicated that the UK and Oman will deepen their cooperation in security, defence, and trade, elevating their centuries-old partnership. The UK-Oman Sovereign Investment Partnership will be enhanced, leading to increased investment in key sectors such as renewable energy, technology, critical minerals, space, healthcare, and financial services. UK Export Finance will boost its financing capacity for British exports to Oman to £7 billion.

Oman has established itself as a significant mediator in the Gulf and with the Houthis in the Red Sea. Concurrently, the nation is accelerating reforms to stimulate investment and develop hubs and free zones. An agreement is also anticipated to strengthen maritime cooperation through enhanced information-sharing with the Omani Maritime Security Centre.

The UK will also announce the reintroduction of the Chevening Educational Scholarship Programme to Oman, providing access to British educational institutions. Wednesday's agenda includes Sultan Haitham's third visit to the Prime Minister’s residence at Downing Street in three years. The foreign, defence, and trade ministers of both countries will also hold separate discussions.

Sultan Haitham was the first overseas leader to meet former prime minister Keir Starmer following the 2024 general election and had met him shortly before Mr. Starmer's departure from the role. The Sultan has found common ground with Mr. Burnham, who succeeded Mr. Starmer in July, particularly regarding Oman's plans for a growth hub at Al Batinah. This initiative was inspired by a project Mr. Burnham led when he was Mayor of Manchester, a topic they discussed during their first phone call in July.

"The UK and Oman have built a friendship which generates real benefits for people at home, and I look forward to shaping the next chapter of our relationship," Mr. Burnham stated prior to the meeting on Wednesday. "Economic growth, security, defence, education: these are just some of the priorities we share as we plot a course through an increasingly complex world. Working together, we are leading with our values and creating opportunities for people in both our countries."