A Step Towards Regional Cooperation: The Meeting of Foreign Ministers of Afghanistan and Oman in Muscat
As part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations, Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, met with his Omani counterpart, Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, in Muscat, the capital of Oman. The meeting aimed at exploring ways to expand political, economic, and social cooperation between the two countries, with both sides emphasizing their commitment to entering a "new phase of relations."
Weezha Roz-Kabul-Mawlawi Muttaqi, referring to the end of decades of war in Afghanistan, called nationwide security and the establishment of balanced relations with the world and the region as major achievements of the Afghan government.
He described this situation as an exceptional opportunity for foreign investors, especially from Oman.
The Afghan Foreign Minister expressed gratitude to Oman for its support of the Afghan Embassy’s operations in Muscat and the facilitation of work visa issuance for Afghan nationals.
The launch of direct flights between the two countries, the increase in Afghan exports to Oman, and the establishment of trade facilities were among the topics of agreement between the two sides.
Al Busaidi also emphasized Oman’s commitment to supporting Afghanistan’s stability and development and called for strengthening relations at all levels, including holding continuous meetings between the foreign ministries of both countries.
Mawlawi Muttaqi:”After decades of insecurity, Afghanistan is now ready for constructive cooperation with regional partners like Oman.
Our priority is to attract investment and improve infrastructure.”
Badr Al Busaidi:”Oman has always been a supporter of peace in Afghanistan and wants to elevate its historical relations to an unprecedented level. We believe in Afghanistan’s economic potential.”
Background of Afghanistan-Oman Relations – Oman is one of the few Arab countries that kept the Afghan Embassy in Muscat operational after the Islamic Emirate’s takeover in 2021.
In recent years, it has also hosted indirect negotiations between Afghan groups and international actors.
Plans are underway to sign trade agreements and encourage Omani investors to engage in Afghanistan’s mining, agriculture, and energy sectors.
The introduction of weekly flights between Kabul and Muscat by the end of 2025 and the creation of a joint committee to follow up on the agreements were also discussed.
This meeting highlights Afghanistan’s efforts to break out of isolation and gain support from Arab countries.
The success of these interactions could enhance Oman’s role as a mediator in Afghan diplomacy.
However, challenges such as international sanctions and Oman’s lack of official recognition of the Afghan government still require careful management.
Weezha Roz
