Omani Ambassador to Korea Zakariya bin Hamad Alsaadi gives a speech during the country's 54th National Day event in Seoul, Tuesday. Korea Times photo by Kim Hyun-bin

On the occasion of the 54th National Day of Oman, Omani Ambassador to Korea Zakariya bin Hamad Alsaadi reflected on the Sultanate's progress and its foreign policy. The event, which commemorated the country's achievements, focused particularly on the lasting legacy of Middle Eastern country's development since the beginning of the Omani Renaissance in 1970.

"It is a matter of pride to recall on this glorious National Day the achievements of the Sultanate of Oman throughout its long journey, especially since the launch of the blessed Omani Renaissance in 1970," Alsaadi said during the 54 Oman National Day event held in Seoul, Tuesday. He highlighted the significant contributions of the late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, who set the foundation for modern Oman, and the current leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, "with great will and determination."

The ambassador emphasized Oman's commitment to peace and stability, underscoring its foreign policy based on dialogue, tolerance, and respect for international law.

"The Sultanate of Oman adopts a firm foreign policy based on the principles of dialogue and tolerance. It always seeks to promote the values of peace and harmony among nations," he said. "My country calls upon the international community to intensify efforts to stop the military escalation in the Middle East."

He urged all parties involved to adhere to international law and the United Nations Charter, stressing the importance of "respecting the principles of peace and justice for all." Specifically, regarding the Palestinian issue, Oman reiterated its strong position: "The Sultanate of Oman reaffirms its unwavering position in support of the Palestinian people in their struggle to obtain their rights as guaranteed by international law."

The ambassador also called for urgent actions to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, as well as in Lebanon. "We call for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza Strip, the lifting of the siege imposed on the innocent population, and the creation of safe passages for the delivery of humanitarian aid."

A key highlight of the speech was the celebration of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Oman and Korea, marking a half-century of friendship and collaboration. "This year, the Sultanate of Oman and the Republic of Korea are celebrating 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between them, which was signed on March 28, 1974," Alsaadi said pointing out the historical ties between the two countries, linking them through the maritime Silk Road, which facilitated centuries of cultural and commercial exchanges.

The ambassador underscored the growing bilateral trade, with Korea becoming Oman's third-largest trading partner. "In 2023, the trade exchange volume reached $5.8 billion. Major Korean companies are contributing to the implementation of strategic projects in Oman, particularly in the fields of renewable energy and infrastructure," he said, highlighting that several Korean companies had secured major contracts in Oman, including the construction of 1,200 housing units in the Smart Sultan Haitham City.

Looking ahead, Alsaadi highlighted Oman's Vision 2040, a strategic plan aimed at achieving sustainable development and promoting technological and human resource advancement.

"Oman's Vision 2040 is an ambitious roadmap to achieve sustainable development. It also promotes economic and social progress, focusing on the development of human and technological resources and capabilities," he said.

"The Sultanate of Oman is keen to strengthen its position as a leading state in clean energy and hydrogen through strategic projects aimed at achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050," he said. Oman plans to produce 1 million tons of green hydrogen by 2030, with the goal of increasing it to 8 million tons by 2050.

In conclusion, the ambassador reaffirmed Oman's commitment to global peace and stability. "At the same time, we affirm that the Sultanate of Oman will continue to play an active role in building a world of peace and stability through promoting the values of dialogue, understanding, international cooperation and joint action with all countries to achieve a bright future for all," he said.