Following a two-day official visit to the Sultanate of Oman, President Joseph Aoun and Sultan Haitham bin Tariq issued a joint statement underscoring the strength of relations between their countries and their shared commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation.
The leaders highlighted the historical ties and fraternal bonds between the peoples of Lebanon and Oman, emphasizing the importance of deepening cooperation across political, economic, cultural, and scientific fields. They reaffirmed their commitment to expanding partnerships in strategic sectors, including investment, banking, tourism, transportation, and logistics. Both leaders also praised the contributions of the Lebanese community residing in Oman and called for preparations for the first session of the Omani-Lebanese Joint Committee to begin promptly, to be held in Muscat under the chairmanship of the two foreign ministers.
The joint statement further outlined plans to sign new agreements and memorandums of understanding, broadening and strengthening cooperation programs, supporting trade and cultural exchange, and promoting private sector participation in mutually beneficial development opportunities.
On regional developments, the statement expressed serious concern over ongoing Israeli strikes on Lebanese territory, citing violations of UN Resolution 1701 and international law. The two sides called for international efforts to stabilize the region, facilitate the return of displaced persons, and assist in Lebanon’s reconstruction.
Oman reiterated its full support for Lebanon’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, as well as for strengthening its state institutions, particularly the Lebanese Armed Forces and security agencies. The statement also emphasized the importance of continuing the economic, financial, and administrative reforms led by Lebanon’s authorities.
The joint statement reaffirmed adherence to the Arab position supporting the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. Both leaders stressed the importance of Arab solidarity, respect for state sovereignty, and upholding principles of good neighborliness and international law.
President Aoun expressed his sincere gratitude to Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, as well as to the Omani government and people, for their hospitality and warm reception, wishing Oman continued prosperity and development under its wise leadership.
Meetings and Cooperation Initiatives
On Wednesday morning, President Aoun held a private meeting at Al-Alam Palace with Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, followed by expanded discussions including the delegations of both countries.
In parallel, Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Raggi met with his Omani counterpart, Badr al-Busaidi, to review Lebanon’s situation and regional developments, as well as ways to revitalize bilateral cooperation.
Raggi criticized the daily Israeli strikes on Lebanon and emphasized the need for the state to regain a monopoly over arms, stating that “the solution can only be diplomatic” and that weapons “have never protected the country.” Al-Busaidi reiterated Muscat’s support for Beirut’s efforts to fully restore its authority and strengthen its sovereignty.
The leaders also discussed activating a direct flight route between Beirut and Muscat, with SalamAir planning to increase its frequencies and Oman Air preparing to open a new connection. They addressed cooperation projects in port management, tourism, energy, and healthcare, and agreed to revive the Joint Supreme Committee in the coming months while energizing the Lebanese-Omani Business Council.
On the first day of his visit, President Aoun praised Oman’s “balanced vision” and its discreet but consistent role in managing regional issues, including mediations between Washington and Tehran. He also highlighted the solid ties between the two countries and expressed his wish to deepen economic, commercial, cultural, and educational cooperation.
Bilateral trade between Lebanon and Oman has grown sharply, rising nearly 30% in the first half of 2025 to over $22 million, with more than a thousand Lebanese companies now registered in Oman.
Comments