From Etihad Rail to diplomacy, UAE and Oman are good friends

In addition to their long borders, the UAE and Oman share deep historical and cultural ties. This was on display during President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed’s state visit to the country, which began on Tuesday.

The gifts exchanged by both parties reflect this bond. Sultan Haytham presented Sheikh Mohammed with a traditional Omani sword. He also awarded him the Order of Saeed, which is usually awarded to high-ranking international representatives for their special role in strengthening relations with Oman. For his part, Sheikh Mohammed awarded the Order of Sultan Haitham Zayed.

After the official meeting, Sheikh Mohammed tweeted: “Thanks to my brother, the Sultan of Oman, for the warm welcome. Our two countries share deep historical ties, friendship and common interests, and I look forward to working together to continue to build a country that serves us well. A brighter future for the people.”

This trip is more than a token renewal of the relationship.In a move to profoundly transform the regional economy, it was also announced that the two countries would adopt a rail system for freight and passengers. The passenger train, which can reach speeds of 200 kilometers per hour, will connect Abu Dhabi to the north of Muscat, the capital of Oman. Etihad Rail and Oman Rail will form a new joint company to oversee the project.

It was just one of 16 agreements signed between the two countries during the visit, covering sectors such as energy, transport and industry, ADQ of Abu Dhabi, one of the region’s largest holding companies, said on Wednesday that it had identified investment opportunities in Oman of up to 30 billion dirhams. ADQ also recently signed a Dh10 billion cooperation agreement with the Oman Investment Authority.

This is an important moment for bilateral relations between the two countries. But it fits with the broader pattern of diplomatic and economic cooperation that has been going on in the Gulf Cooperation Council region. A shared culture and destiny has always bound EU member states, but the recent collaboration has been particularly strong.

In January 2021, the Ulla Declaration became a particularly important moment of regional solidarity. It effectively restored diplomatic relations between Qatar and four Arab countries, three of them from the Gulf Cooperation Council. This is important diplomatically. But it’s also very personal in a region where people are so closely connected across borders.

The future is full of events that the GCC needs to coordinate. The World Cup in Qatar will boost the domestic economy and that of its neighbors.on Wednesday National According to industry experts, the event will boost the Dubai real estate market, providing a “mini-expo effect”.

In addition to working with individual member states, countries outside the region often look to the EU for stability. During last week’s UN General Assembly meeting, the GCC group met with representatives from the UK, US, China and France collectively. In addition, the UK is negotiating a major trade deal with the Gulf Cooperation Council.possible August 2023 attack. Other major powers are having similar conversations.

Beyond the economy, the region is also embracing the fight against the climate crisis. Cop28, arguably the most important international climate conference, will be held in the UAE next year. Some of its states have pledged to make ambitious net-zero commitments. Regular meetings are held between the ministers of health, the interior and other ministers to ensure cooperation.

Oman and the UAE are made stronger by recent reminders of their shared history. But every time GCC member states have similar moments, and there are many such occasions, the whole group benefits.

Posted: September 29, 2022 3:00 AM